Man arrested after explosion at Southgate tube station

A 23-year-old man has been arrested after an explosion at Southgate tube station.

Five people were hurt after the blast on Tuesday evening, which was believed to have been caused by a faulty drill battery.

In a statement, British Transport Police said: "Enquiries continue this morning into a small explosion at Southgate Underground station last night.

"The incident, which left five people with minor injuries, is believed to have been caused by a faulty drill battery.

"A 23-year-old from Enfield was arrested on suspicion of doing an act likely to cause an explosion to injure or damage property, and endangering safety on the railway.

"He has been released under investigation pending further enquiries."

Three of those injured were treated at the scene and two were taken to hospital.

A witness said several people on a packed escalator had been trampled on after the explosion sparked 6ft-high flames.

A short circuit in the battery is thought to have caused the blast, according to the Metropolitan Police.

The station was cordoned off, but the incident is not believed to be terror-related.