Counter-terror police in the UK have announced they are investigating packages containing explosive devices sent to Waterloo railway station, Heathrow Airport and London City Airport.
According to a statement from the UK’s Metropolitan Police, the packages – A4 postal bags containing yellow Jiffy bags – were small improvised explosive devices.
“The Met Police Counter Terrorism Command has launched an investigation after three suspicious packages were received at buildings in London [on Tuesday, March 5],” the statement said.
“The packages […] have been assessed by specialist officers to be small improvised explosive devices. These devices, at this early stage of the investigation, appear capable of igniting an initially small fire when opened.
“The Met Police Counter Terrorism Command is treating the incidents as a linked series and is keeping an open mind regarding motives.”
Each package was said to have featured stamps with red hearts on, which are believed to have originated from Ireland. The Irish police force has confirmed it is assisting the Met Police with its investigations.
Both Heathrow Airport’s Compass Centre and London City Airport’s City Aviation House were evacuated, while an area of Waterloo station was cordoned off when the package was discovered in the post room. No one has been hurt in the incidents.