Gas attack on rail commuters

Passengers were left gasping for breath after a packed commuter train was gassed by a teenage gang.

Today police have released these CCTV images of the gang, who released the CS gas into the carriage, affecting up to 30 passengers.

When they sprayed the substance, one of the gang made a gesture at passengers indicating they should have their throats cut.

The images show the gang getting off the train at Penge East and as the doors close, one reaches his hand into the window and sprays what is believed to be CS gas or pepper spray. The effects take hold immediately.

The passengers, including young children and pensioners, start to suffer breathing difficulties and irritation to eyes and throats. One passenger required medical treatment after the carriage was evacuated just after 4pm on 20 July.

Detective Constable Vanessa Cottington of British Transport Police said: "This was a very dangerous act and left many passengers suffering discomfort and distress. Police hope members of the public may be able to assist in identifying three youths."

They are two males aged 16 to 17 with shaved hair and a black youth aged 15 to 16 carrying a red mountain bike.

Anyone with information is asked to contact BTP on 0800 40 50 40 or the Witness Appeal Line on 0207 391 5275.