London's Gatwick Airport: South Terminal evacuated after discovery of suspected prohibited item in luggage
A large part of the South Terminal of London's Gatwick Airport was evacuated following a 'security incident' on Friday.
Sussex Police said security cordon was placed in the airport after suspected prohibited item was discovered in the luggage.
"A security cordon is in place around the South Terminal at Gatwick Airport following discovery of a suspected prohibited item in luggage," police posted on X.
This is causing significant disruption and some roads around the South Terminal have been closed. We are advising the public to avoid the area where possible.
— Sussex Police (@sussex_police) November 22, 2024
Please keep an eye on our social media for updates and thank you for your patience while this is ongoing. pic.twitter.com/2J2biLpmTd
Police said the incident caused a significant disruption and some roads around the South Terminal have been closed.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
A large part of the South Terminal has been evacuated as a precaution while we continue to investigate a security incident.
— London Gatwick LGW (@Gatwick_Airport) November 22, 2024
Passengers will not be able to enter the South Terminal while this is ongoing.
Safety and security of our passengers and staff remains our top priority.… pic.twitter.com/srjjz4rra0
"A large part of the South Terminal has been evacuated as a precaution while we continue to investigate a security incident," the official X page of the airport wrote.
"Passengers will not be able to enter the South Terminal while this is ongoing," the airport said.
Gatwick is the second busiest airport in the UK.
Arrived at London Gatwick for routine connection. Got through customs to find out they're evacuating the entire airport. Even people through security are being taken outside. Trains shut down and 1000's of all over the streets and carparks waiting. pic.twitter.com/igXDpt9aQL
— Nick Meacham (@SportsProNick) November 22, 2024
One traveller, who was identified as Nick Meacham, wrote on X: "Arrived at London Gatwick for routine connection. Got through customs to find out they're evacuating the entire airport. Even people through security are being taken outside. Trains shut down and 1000's of all over the streets and carparks waiting."
According to reports, a bomb disposal squad has been deployed to the airport.
