One witness said there were “lots” of people injured after the explosion and a subsequent stampede. Another said a “fireball flew down the carriage”.
A photo shared on social media appears to show the object which exploded on the train this morning. It appears to be a white bucket contained in a Lidl bag.
The photo showed the container still burning with passengers’ bags scattered across the carriage.
Police are yet to confirm what caused the explosion, but a heavy security presence is trawling the area.
Is London safe?
London’s Met Police have confirmed the Tube explosion is being treated as an act of terrorism.
The current terror threat in the UK is listed as severe.
It was briefly raised to the highest level, critical, in the wake of UK terror attacks earlier this year.
Previously police have appealed to the public for help in detecting any security threats.
The Met Police said: “We need the help and support of individuals, businesses and communities across London to remain alert and maintain the safety and security of those places in which we live, work and socialise.
“Crowded places, events, public transport, and iconic locations are some examples of locations that could be potential targets for terrorists. All of these are to be found in London.
“You are familiar with your workplace and surrounding area, so you’re ideally placed to spot when something is amiss. In this period of heightened alert, it is vital to remain vigilant, trust your instincts and report possible terrorist activity to the police.
The public are urged to look out for anything suspicious and report it immediately.
This includes:
- They ask people to look for anything that seems out of the ordinary, such as:
- People in stationary vehicles watching a building or structure
- Vehicles moving slowly near public buildings, structures or bridges, or parked in suspicious circumstances
- People using recording equipment, including camera phones, or seen making notes or sketches of security details
- Someone suspicious paying close attention to specific entry and exit points, stairwells, hallways or fire escapes
- People loitering at or near premises for long periods and watching staff, visitors and deliveries for no apparent reason
- People asking detailed or unusual questions about buildings and business operations, facilities (such as room layouts), security or parking for no apparent reason
- Challenge those in offices and ‘off limits’ areas, plant rooms and similar – report matters immediately to your security manager or dial 999.
- Members of the public should always remain alert to the danger of terrorism and report any suspicious activity to the police on 999 or the anti-terrorist hotline: 0800 789 321
