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Disruption on trains for Kent commuters after suspected terror attack at London Bridge

15:02, 29 November 2019

updated: 14:07, 09 December 2019

Commuters heading home from the capital will not be able to get a train from London Bridge station after a terror attack on London Bridge.

Armed police stormed the landmark after being called to reports a man was attacking people with a knife.

Phil Wellbrook reports from the scene

The terrorist, who was said to be wearing hoax improvised explosive device, was shot dead by police.

Southeastern tweeted to say the mainline railway station has been closed as the whole area is on lock-down.

Met Police assistant commissioner for specialist operations, Neil Basu, said: "I can confirm that at approximately 2pm today, police were called to a stabbing at a premises near to London Bridge.

"Emergency services attended, including officers from the City of London Police and the Metropolitan Police.

"A male suspect was shot by specialist armed officers from City of London Police and I can confirm that this suspect died at the scene.

"A number of other people received injuries during the incident.

"As you would expect, due to the nature of the incident, we responded as though it was terrorist-related.

"I am now in a position to confirm that it has been declared a terrorist incident.

"We are working jointly with the City of London Police as we continue to respond.

"Officers from the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command are now leading this investigation.

"I must stress, however, that we retain an open mind as to any motive. It would not be appropriate to speculate further at this time.

"Due to reports that the suspect may have had an explosive device, specialist officers also attended the scene and wide cordons are in place to ensure there remains no further danger to the public.

"However, I can confirm that at this time, we believe a device that was strapped to the body of the suspect is a hoax explosive device.

"Officers continue to carry out meticulous searches in the area to ensure there is no outstanding threat to the public.

"Those extensive cordons will remain in place for a considerable time and I would ask the public please continue to avoid the area.

"Public safety is obviously our top priority and we will be enhancing police patrols in the City and across London.

"I would ask anyone with information, image or footage of the incident that this be shared with our investigation team to do so on the UK Police Image appeal website.

"I would also ask the public to continue to remain vigilant and report any concerns they have to police."

Naushabah Khan, a member of the Labour and Co-operative party, from Medway Council was working near the incident at the time.

She tweeted: "Office on lockdown, and roads closed, but am safe."

Cllr Khan was let out from her office just over two hours later, adding: "Finally able to leave. London Bridge Events like this are a stark reminder of what’s important, but also that you cannot let the haters win- we have to stay strong and united.

"Thoughts and prayers with those who have been hurt."

Anyone with information can call the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321. In an emergency call 999. Anyone who may have footage or images of the incident is asked to send them to police via www.ukpoliceimageappeal.co.uk

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