The UK will conduct a review of rail security following a stabbing incident on a train that has resulted in 10 counts of attempted murder being filed against a 32-year-old man. The attack occurred on a service traveling from Doncaster to London on Saturday night. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander announced that the government aims to evaluate current security measures, with a commitment to respond effectively.
In the wake of the incident, questions regarding passenger safety have emerged, particularly after the assailant, identified as Anthony Williams from Peterborough, attacked several passengers, leaving eleven individuals hospitalized. Among them was a train staff member reportedly in critical but stable condition. The British Transport Police (BTP) confirmed the charges against Williams, which also include actual bodily harm and possession of a bladed item.
Alexander indicated that BTP officers would enhance visible patrols at major stations in the upcoming days to address public concerns and provide reassurance. She emphasized that such incidents are rare within the rail network, noting that for every one million passenger journeys, only 27 crimes occur.
To improve railroad security, plans include investments in upgraded CCTV systems at stations, with the Home Office set to consult on potential facial recognition technology. However, Alexander expressed skepticism about applying airport-style luggage scanning technology in UK stations, citing it as an inappropriate solution at this time.
Andy Trotter, a former British Transport Police Chief Constable, commented on the attack, highlighting the public’s apprehensions about safety in confined spaces. He voiced hope that this incident would lead to a comprehensive review of security protocols and an increase in policing on the railways.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cd7r4zwwq53o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss