LONDON — A major British airport evacuated one of its terminals Friday over an unspecified « security incident. »
London Gatwick said that passengers were told to leave part of its south terminal « as a precaution » while an investigation takes place.
Sussex Police said in a statement that officers were called to the airport at 8:20 a.m (3:20 a.m. ET) after the discovery of a « suspected prohibited item » in a passenger’s luggage.
A bomb disposal team was headed to the site, « as a precaution, » police said, adding that the public are advised to avoid the area due to the disruption caused by the closure of the terminal and local roads.
« Safety and security of our passengers and staff remains our top priority. We are working hard to resolve the issue as quickly as possible, » the airport said in a statement on X.
Passengers posted pictures and video on social media showing large crowds waiting outside while part of the terminal is closed.
Separately, a road was closed outside the U.S. Embassy in London on Friday after a suspicious package was found.
« Local authorities are investigating a suspicious package outside the U.S. Embassy in London. Met Police are present and have closed Ponton Road out of an abundance of caution. We will provide further updates when available, » an embassy spokesperson said in a statement.
This is a developing story, check back here for updates soon.
