At least nine people were left with life-threatening injuries after a series of stabbings on a train near Cambridge on Saturday, British police said. Two suspects have been arrested as investigators work to determine the motive behind the violent attack.

Authorities said officers were called after reports of multiple stabbings aboard a London-bound train. Armed police units entered the train and detained two men at the scene without further incident.

The victims were immediately treated by paramedics and transported to nearby hospitals. Police described the victims’ injuries as “life-threatening,” adding that emergency services acted “swiftly and professionally” to prevent further harm.

Cambridgeshire Police confirmed that counterterrorism officers are supporting the investigation, though the motive remains unclear.

A spokesperson for the British Transport Police said: “This was a fast-moving and distressing situation. Our officers responded within minutes of receiving the call, and two individuals are now in custody. There is no wider threat to the public at this time.”

PM Starmer calls incident “deeply concerning”

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the attack, calling it “deeply concerning” and expressing gratitude to emergency responders.

“This appalling incident has shaken our sense of safety,” Starmer said. “My thoughts are with the victims and their families as police work to uncover the full details.”

Passengers described scenes of chaos as panic spread through the train. “People were screaming and rushing toward the doors,” one witness told local media. “It all happened so fast — nobody knew what was going on.”

Videos shared on social media showed armed officers surrounding the train and helping passengers evacuate.

As of Sunday morning, police said the two suspects remain in custody, and authorities are conducting searches in the Cambridge area. Forensic teams are examining the train and nearby tracks for evidence.

Officials have not released further details about the suspects or the possible motive, urging the public to avoid speculation until the investigation concludes.