Two Teens Held After Chemical Attack Shocks Surbiton Station
Two teenage boys were arrested following a suspected chemical attack at Surbiton train station that sent two police officers to hospital.
Cops Sprayed with Alkaline Substance
The drama unfolded around 4:20 PM on Friday when British Transport Police (BTP) officers spotted two suspicious youths at the station. As they approached, the officers were exposed to a corrosive substance believed to be alkaline.
Two officers were rushed to hospital but thankfully their injuries are not life-threatening or life-changing. Seven other officers, including two from the Metropolitan Police, were checked on-site by paramedics and released without hospital care.
Teen Suspects Face Serious Charges
The suspects, aged just 14 and 16, were arrested on suspicion of possession of a corrosive substance in a public place and conspiracy to commit grievous bodily harm. The older teen was also taken to hospital as a precaution.
Police confirmed no one else is being sought and are continuing their investigation.
Station Briefly Shuts as Fire Brigade Secures Scene
The London Fire Brigade sealed off the area to make sure it was safe, causing a temporary closure of Surbiton station. Services have since returned to normal.
“The safety of our officers and the public remains our priority. Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to come forward,” a British Transport Police spokesperson said.
The arrests have sparked fresh fears about the reckless use of corrosive chemicals in public and the dangers emergency workers face on the front line.
