Police carried out 'explosion' as suspect package found at major UK station

Police have carried out a "controlled explosion" after reports a "suspicious package" was found during the height of rush hour at a busy London station causing travel chaos across the rail network.

It's understood the package was discovered on a road close to the station around 4pm and the decision was made to evacuate the area as an investigation was carried out.

Just after 5pm East Croydon station in south London - one of the main stops on the route to Gatwick Airport was shut down.

One person, who had been aiming to travel to Gatwick Airport, said: "Someone went and left a suspicious package outside of East Croydon station now the whole area is locked off."

A spokesperson for Southern Rail initially said on the social media site X: "Police are dealing with an incident at East Croydon station.

"The main entrance is currently shut and you will need to use the alternative available entrances and exits at the station. Staff are on site and will help assist you should you need it."

Southern Rail added at around 6pm that trains were now using the station, but that there would be significant delays. A statement from National Rail around 8pm confirmed the disruption had now been cleared.

A spokesperson for Metropolitan Police said:"Members of the public were evacuated and safety cordons were put in place while specialist officers assessed the item.

"As a precaution, specialist teams have conducted a controlled explosion at the location."

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