Police raced to a Elm Park tube station after receiving reports of a man allegedly armed with a gun during the morning rush hour.

The incident happened shortly after 7am on Thursday at Elm Park station, prompting authorities to swiftly shut down the station.

A 61-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possessing a firearm and is currently being held in police custody.

The station remained closed until 10.46am as officers conducted their investigations, causing disruption for commuters.

Transport for London (TfL) advised travellers via social media to avoid the area, tweeting: “This station is closed while police respond to an incident. Tickets are being accepted on London Buses via reasonable routes.”

A spokesperson from British Transport Police confirmed details of the incident, stating: “Officers were called just after 7am today (June 19) to Elm Park Underground station following reports of a man in possession of a firearm.

“Officers attended, and a 61-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm and taken into custody.”