A serious security incident at London’s Heathrow Airport has led to criminal charges after two women were robbed and several people, including a young child, were injured by what authorities believe was pepper spray. The episode, which unfolded in a multi-storey car park at Terminal 3 on Sunday, caused temporary travel disruption and prompted a swift police response.
Suspects Charged Following Airport Assault
Two Men Face Multiple Counts of Robbery and Administering a Noxious Substance
Authorities confirmed that 31-year-old Tyrone Richards and 24-year-old Anton Clarke-Butcher have been formally charged in connection with the attack. According to HM Courts and Tribunals Service, both men face:
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Two counts of robbery
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Two counts of administering a noxious substance
These charges relate directly to an assault in which two women were robbed of their luggage shortly after exiting a lift in the Terminal 3 car park.
Court Appearance Scheduled
Richards and Clarke-Butcher are scheduled to appear before Uxbridge Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, where they will face the allegations arising from Sunday’s incident.
Details of the Terminal 3 Robbery
Victims Targeted Immediately After Leaving Lift
Investigators say the victims had just stepped out of a lift in the multi-storey car park when they were approached and robbed. Their suitcases were taken during the confrontation.
Shortly after the robbery, a noxious substance—believed to be pepper spray—was released in the area, causing panic and injuries to multiple members of the public.
Child Among Those Injured
A three-year-old girl was among the victims exposed to the substance. In total, five people were taken to hospital for treatment. Fortunately, authorities confirmed that all individuals were later discharged, with no life-threatening injuries.
Police Response and Additional Arrests
Investigation Expands With Arrests of Additional Suspects
The Metropolitan Police revealed on Monday that a 23-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit robbery. She remained in custody as of Monday afternoon.
In a separate development, a 31-year-old man was also arrested near the scene on Sunday on suspicion of robbery and assault. He has since been released under investigation while inquiries continue.
Incident Not Terrorism-Related
Authorities were quick to clarify that the assault was being treated as an isolated criminal incident, and not linked to terrorism. Despite the dramatic impact on travelers, police emphasised that there was no wider threat to the airport or the public.
Impact on Airport Operations
Temporary Disruptions to Traffic and Transport Near Terminal 3
The use of the suspected pepper spray and the ensuing emergency response triggered logistical complications around Heathrow’s Central Terminal Area. The Terminal 3 car park and a section of the Central Terminal Area tunnel were partially closed for a short period while police secured the scene and ensured public safety.
Train Delays Reported
Transport services were also affected, with train delays occurring as a result of the disruption. While the closures were temporary, they added to the confusion and delays experienced by passengers already navigating a busy weekend of travel.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Impact
Police Continue to Appeal for Information
The investigation remains active, and officers are continuing to gather evidence, review CCTV footage, and interview witnesses. Police have urged anyone who may have seen the incident or captured video to come forward to assist with the inquiry.
Public Reassurance Amid Rising Security Concerns
Given the setting—a major international airport—incidents of this nature can raise immediate concerns about public safety. However, police reiterated that the event was a targeted robbery, and there is no indication of broader risk to travellers or staff.
Security teams at Heathrow routinely work alongside law enforcement to handle emergencies, and Sunday’s coordinated response demonstrated the effectiveness of the airport’s safety protocols.
What Happens Next?
Court Proceedings and Potential Charges
With two suspects now formally charged, the case will proceed through the court system beginning with their appearance at Uxbridge Magistrates’ Court. Depending on the outcome of the hearing, the case may be transferred to a higher court due to the seriousness of the charges, particularly those involving the use of a noxious substance.
Further Arrests Possible
As detectives continue their investigation, additional arrests or charges remain possible. The involvement of more than one suspect, along with the coordinated nature of the robbery, suggests that the crime may have been pre-planned.
Conclusion
The pepper spray assault and robbery at Heathrow Airport’s Terminal 3 has resulted in significant police action, multiple arrests, and substantial disruption for travellers. With two men now charged and further investigations underway, authorities are working to fully understand the events of Sunday’s attack and ensure accountability for those responsible.
While the incident caused distress and temporary chaos, early police statements reaffirm that it was an isolated criminal event, not linked to terrorism. As the case moves forward in court, more details are expected to emerge about the circumstances surrounding the robbery and the involvement of additional suspects.