Suspicious item on Tube at North Greenwich investigated by police
Counter-terrorism police descend on the station after Tube staff notice an item on the Jubilee Line close to the O2.
Thursday 20 October 2016 22:09, UK
A suspicious item found on the Tube is being investigated by counter-terrorism officers.
British Transport Police were called to North Greenwich Underground Station in London at about 11am and a controlled explosion was carried out shortly afterwards.
The station, which was evacuated and closed by officers, reopened shortly after 6pm.
"While we are keeping an open mind, the Met's Counter Terrorism Command is leading the investigation because it has the expertise to deal with incidents of this kind," Scotland Yard said.
"We continue to encourage the public to remain vigilant and alert at all times and report anything suspicious to police."
Tube staff reported the suspicious item on a train travelling eastbound on the Jubilee Line.
No further details about the item have been released.
North Greenwich is the main hub for London's O2 complex.
Canadian rock band Nickelback, who playing at the venue tonight, reassured fans the show would go ahead after concerns were raised on social media.
There were severe delays on the entire line due to the security alert.
Police are appealing for information, asking people who saw anything suspicious to call the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321.
MI5 says the current threat level for international terrorism in the UK remains severe, meaning an attack is "highly likely".