LONDON (AP) – A 57-year-old man was arrested on Tuesday following an incident at Heathrow Airport that led to the partial evacuation of Terminal 4. The arrest stems from allegations of possessing tear gas, specifically CS gas, which is a synthetic irritant commonly used by law enforcement as a form of crowd control.
The incident occurred late on Monday, resulting in the closure of the departures area for approximately three hours. During this time, about 20 individuals received treatment from paramedics at the scene. Thankfully, none of the people affected suffered serious injuries, as confirmed by the Metropolitan Police.
Authorities do not currently believe the incident is terror-related, though the investigation is ongoing. Despite the nature of the gas, which can cause respiratory and eye irritation, it appears that the incident was not intended to inflict harm but rather involved the potential misuse of a hazardous material.
In response to the situation, police, firefighters, and ambulance crews quickly mobilized to manage what was initially classified as a hazardous material incident. Upon their arrival, officers located a canister thought to contain the CS gas, prompting further investigation and security protocols at one of the world's busiest airports.
The 57-year-old suspect was detained under suspicion of possessing CS spray, which is considered a type of firearm under British law. Additionally, the man faces charges of causing a public nuisance as a result of the incident. In compliance with local regulations, the suspect's identity has not been disclosed, as individuals in England are typically not named until formally charged with a crime.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns surrounding safety and security at major transportation hubs, particularly in light of recent global events that have heightened vigilance against potential threats. The swift response by emergency services underscores the importance of preparedness for hazardous material situations, especially in crowded public spaces like airports.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities are likely to assess how tear gas was brought into the terminal and the circumstances that led to its deployment. Monitoring and regulation of such substances are intended to prevent misuse and ensure public safety, raising critical discussions about the accessibility and control of these materials.
