Man Arrested At Popular UK Airport After Allegedly Bringing Tear Gas To Terminal

A man was arrested at the UK’s Heathrow Airport after officers found a can of “what is believed to be CS spray.” The incident temporarily closed a terminal at the busiest airport in the country.

What happened: According to a report by The Guardian, the incident occurred on September 8, just before 5:50 PM. The check-in near Terminal 4 reopened around 8:30 PM.

• The Metropolitan Police reportedly said they initiated the closure while emergency services investigated a “potential hazardous materials incident.” Authorities have not released the identity of the suspect, but say they have arrested a 57-year-old man on suspicion of “causing a public nuisance” and possession of a firearm. In this case, the firearm is allegedly a canister of CS Spray, a form of tear gas.
• The Guardian explains that police searched the area and found “what is believed to be CS spray,” which officers say “caused a reaction to those within the airport.”
• Authorities note that the spray did not cause any life-changing injuries. However, 20 people reported symptoms of irritation and paramedics treated them at the scene.

Trains To The Airport Terminal Were Temporarily Stopped

Business as usual: According to an updated report by The Guardian, National Rail briefly stopped trains traveling to Terminal 4. Despite the incident and police presence, flights remained largely unaffected with minor delays.

• The outlet explains that police found “no trace of any adverse substance.” A spokesperson for the London Ambulance reportedly said that emergency services treated 21 people. They transported one to a hospital and discharged the others at the scene.
• The Guardian claims that a police source initially believed the incident was a case of mass hysteria before they located the canister. Police say they are continuing to investigate the cause of the incident.

Another airport arrest: A woman was arrested at Miami International Airport earlier this month. She reportedly offered to help an overwhelmed mother by “soothing” her crying child. She then walked away with the 4-year-old and claimed the boy was hers.

• Authorities say that the woman, 23-year-old Alvina Agba, refused to return the child. She then allegedly wrapped her arms and legs around the boy so his mother couldn’t take her back.
• A bystander intervened and took the boy behind an airport counter. Police charged Agba with battery and interference of custody.