United Kingdom: London’s Victoria coach station evacuated May 23

Event

London’s Victoria coach (bus) station was evacuated on Tuesday, May 23, during the morning rush hour following the discovery of a suspicious package. Police cordoned off the area around the station, including Buckingham Palace Road and adjacent streets. The package has since been determined to not be a threat and operations should progressively resume at the station. Residual disruptions are to be anticipated.

Police presence has been increased throughout London due to the potential threat of another attack, following Monday’s Manchester bombing.

Context

On Monday, May 22, at least 22 people were killed and 59 more were injured in an explosion that occurred at the Manchester Arena (located in the northern English city of Manchester) at approximately 22:40 (local time). The incident occurred at the end of a concert being given by pop singer Ariana Grande. Police officers are treating the incident as a terrorist attack carried out by a potential lone-wolf suicide bomber, who was killed on the spot. The nearby Manchester Victoria railway station was evacuated and will remain closed at least through Tuesday, May 23. Police operations are ongoing and people have been advised to avoid the area surrounding the arena.

Advice

Individuals present in the United Kingdom are advised to adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and report any suspicious objects or behavior. Travelers in London and Manchester are advised to prepare for transportation disruptions.