Knife attack on a train in the UK: Nine people stabbed, two men arrested

(Patria) - Nine people have sustained life-threatening injuries after a series of stabbings on a train near Cambridge in eastern England. Two men have been arrested in connection with what British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called a "terrible incident."

British police have reported that counter-terrorism police are supporting the investigation as they work to determine all the circumstances and motives of the incident.

Police also confirmed that the word "Plato" was used, a national code word used by police and emergency services when responding to what could be a "moving terrorist attack." That declaration was later withdrawn, and the motive for the attack has not been disclosed.

A "moving terrorist attack" refers to a type of terrorist attack in which attackers randomly and while moving through city streets or public spaces target multiple locations, often combining shootings, stabbings, vehicle hijackings, or explosions.

"We are conducting urgent investigations to determine what happened, and it may take some time before we are able to confirm anything further. At this early stage, it would not be appropriate to speculate on the causes of the incident," said Chief Inspector Chris Casey of the British Transport Police (BTP).

Cambridgeshire Police stated that armed police arrived at the scene after a report of the incident was received.

"Armed officers arrived at the scene, and the train was stopped in Huntingdon, where two men were arrested," police said.

Several patients were taken to hospital.

Police stated that the attack occurred yesterday around 6:25 PM on a train traveling from Doncaster to London's King's Cross, shortly after the train left Peterborough station.

In a post on X, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: "A terrible incident on a train near Huntingdon is deeply concerning. My thoughts are with all those affected, and I thank the emergency services for their response. Anyone in the area should follow police advice."

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood stated that she was "deeply saddened" by the news of the stabbings.

"I urge people to avoid comments and speculation at this early stage," she noted.