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09 May 2017 | 01:39 AM UTC

France: Manhunt for three terror suspects prompts Gare du Nord evacuation /update 1

Gare du Nord train station in Paris evacuated amid unspecified security concerns late on May 8; avoid area

Informational

Event

Paris's Gare du Nord station was evacuated on the evening of Monday, May 8 as armed police searched the station for three 'dangerous' terror suspects. The station was cordoned off at approximately 23:00 (local time) and hundreds of travelers were evacuated, while others were kept on trains. Police were reportedly acting on intelligence reports that three men, suspected of plotting a terrorist attack,  were due to arrive in France on May 8. Since then, there have been reported sightings of the men in Paris, Bordeaux, and Marseille, although they have yet to be detained.

Eurostar operations have not been affected, and the station is expected to operate as normal on Tuesday, May 9 .

Context

France remains on high alert due to an elevated terror threat and in the immediate aftermath of the May 7 presidential election. A shooting attack targeting French police on the Avenue des Champs Elysées left one officer dead on April 20.

Advice

Individuals present in Paris are advised to avoid the area surrounding the Gare du Nord and to abide by all instructions issued by the local authorities. Report any suspicious objects or behavior.