08 September 2023 , 12:46
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A suspicious vehicle was stopped at the Channel tunnel terminal in Kent and one man has been detained.
Explosive experts from the British army have been called to the scene, Kent Constabulary confirmed to the Mirror.
A spokesperson for Kent Police said: "At around 10.30am on Friday 8 September 2023 a suspicious vehicle was stopped at the Channel Tunnel terminal in Cheriton.
"Explosives experts from the British Army have been called to the scene and a cordon has been put in place for the safety of the public. This is currently having an effect on traffic approaching the terminal. A man has been detained in connection with the incident and enquiries are ongoing."
Freight lorries heading to Dover queue near Eurotunnel after a previous incident (PA)Eurotunnel, now known as Le Shuttle, told Mirror tourists will face "severe disruption" this afternoon but the tunnel has now been reopened, it has been confirmed. A spokesperson said: "A suspicious vehicle has been intercepted during a routine security check at the Channel Tunnel Terminal in Folkestone. Kent police and specialist officers are dealing with the incident.
"Access to the Folkestone terminal is currently suspended awaiting the outcome of the police intervention. Customers are advised to check on the LeShuttle website and social media for the latest travel information.
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"Customers are advised that, because of this incident, travel will be severely disrupted throughout the afternoon and to prepare to modify their travel plans as a consequence."
It is understood the operation is not linked to the disappearance of fugitive Daniel Khalife, who fled HMP Wandsworth in southwest London this week.
Vehicles can be seen queueing amid the delays in photographs shared online this afternoon. Typically, Friday afternoons are busy periods with families eager to get away for the weekend. There is currently heavy traffic on the M20 as a result of the incident, it is understood.
No further details about the man, such as his age or where is from, have been disclosed by police at this stage. Kent Police says the investigation continues.