Man Arrested After ‘Assault Rifle’ Shocker on Elizabeth Line
A man has been arrested after a viral video showed him brandishing what looked like an assault rifle on the Elizabeth Line in London – sparking panic online.
Viral Video Shows Man in Military Gear
The footage, which spread fast on January 28, captures a man dressed in military fatigues assembling a large gun-like object. He is seen raising the weapon to his shoulder and crouching as the train pulls into Whitechapel station, while passengers around him seem largely unfazed.
Police confirmed the bizarre incident happened on Saturday, January 25. The man was actually attending a Comic Con event in costume, according to British Transport Police (BTP).
Arrest Made — Charges of Imitation Firearm and Offensive Weapon
A man in his 20s from south London has been arrested over the stunt. He faces two charges:
- Possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear or violence
- Possession of an offensive weapon
The suspect remains in police custody as investigations continue.
A BTP spokesperson said: “A man in his 20s from south London has been arrested on suspicion of one count of possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear or violence and one count of possession of an offensive weapon. He remains in custody.”
They added the weapon was later confirmed to be an imitation, and the man had been spoken to earlier this week by police.
Police Urge Witnesses to Come Forward
Despite the video’s unsettling nature, BTP stressed no immediate public safety threat was posed. Officers are now appealing for anyone who saw the incident or has additional info to get in touch.
If you witnessed the incident at Whitechapel station on January 25 or have further details, contact police on 61016, quoting reference 433 of 30 January.
The arrest underlines London transport authorities’ determination to keep passengers safe and reassure the public, especially after worrying incidents like this.
Passengers on the Elizabeth Line and across London Underground are urged to report any suspicious behaviour immediately to help maintain network safety.
