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# Security Alert
Gatwick Airport terminal evacuated after discovery of suspicious package
Police said a suspicious item had sparked a security alert.
A GATWICK AIRPORT terminal has been evacuated this morning following the discovery of a suspect package.
Police said they were alerted to “suspicious actions by a man who discarded an item” at around 9.30am.
The man was arrested and bomb disposal exports have been called to investigate the item.
Photos posted on social media showed hundreds of people leaving the airport’s north terminal.
“At this time, we are investigating the circumstances of the incident and it is too early to say what the item may be,” Detective Superintendent Nick May said.
“However, given the events in Paris on Friday evening, there is heightened awareness around any such incident and it is best that we treat the matter in all seriousness,” he added.
“We are aware that there is concern about what has happened in France, but the general threat level remains the same and people should be aware as usual of anyone acting suspiciously.”
In a statement, Gatwick Airport said: “Due to an incident, the north terminal has been evacuated as a precautionary measure. [There are] extra staff on-site looking after passenger welfare.”
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