A significant security incident unfolded at Gatwick Airport train station today, leading to the arrest of a man found in possession of two imitation firearms. The alarming situation began when reports surfaced of a firearm on board a train traveling from Brighton, prompting immediate emergency response and widespread service disruptions across key rail lines.
Emergency Response and Station Evacuation
British Transport Police received a report at 12:45 PM on February 20, 2026, concerning a man allegedly carrying a firearm on a train from Brighton. In a coordinated effort, officers from British Transport Police and Sussex Police swiftly descended on Gatwick Airport station, where they met the arriving train. The station was promptly cordoned off and evacuated as a precautionary measure, though airport operations themselves remained largely unaffected.
Arrest and Investigation Details
Upon investigation, officers discovered that the man was carrying two imitation firearms rather than real weapons. He was detained at the scene and arrested by Sussex Police. A British Transport Police spokesperson confirmed the arrest, stating that their officers are actively investigating the incident to determine the full circumstances and motives behind the possession of these imitation items.
Major Travel Disruptions Across Rail Services
The incident caused severe disruptions to train services in the Gatwick Airport area, with National Rail issuing warnings to passengers about expected delays. Key affected services included the Gatwick Express, Great Western Railway, Southern, and Thameslink lines. London Gatwick Airport took to social media to advise travelers that train services were not stopping at the airport station due to the ongoing incident, urging passengers to check service updates and allow extra time for their journeys.
Recovery and Reopening of Station
While the Gatwick Airport train station has since reopened following the arrest and clearance of the scene, rail operators cautioned that some delays might persist as services work to return to normal schedules. The swift response by authorities helped contain the situation, but the ripple effects on travel plans were felt by many commuters and airport-bound passengers throughout the afternoon.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges in maintaining security at major transport hubs and the rapid coordination required between police forces and transport authorities to address potential threats. Passengers are reminded to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to authorities immediately.
