Police officers hospitalized after chemical exposure; two teenagers arrested

Two officers from British Transport Police (BTP) were transported to a hospital after an “exposure” to a corrosive alkaline substance. This occurred during an incident at Surbiton railway station, located in south west London. The officers sustained injuries after they approached two individuals whom they suspected of acting suspiciously around 16:20 GMT on Friday. According to BTP, their injuries are not considered to be life-changing or life-threatening. Subsequently, two boys, aged 14 and 16, were apprehended. They face suspicion of possessing a corrosive substance in a public area and conspiracy to commit grievous bodily harm. The police force stated that the 16-year-old was also transported to a hospital as a precautionary measure. Additionally, seven other officers, which included two from the Metropolitan Police, received checks from paramedics at the scene of the incident. A BTP spokesperson confirmed: “Officers are not looking for anyone else in connection and enquiries are ongoing.” The station had been closed temporarily while the London Fire Brigade secured the area, but it has since resumed operations.