Disturbing footage captured by a passenger has revealed the terrifying moment a violent knife fight erupted between three men on a London Underground platform. The incident, which left one man injured on the ground, has intensified fears over a growing epidemic of disorder on the capital's public transport network.
A Brutal Assault at Colliers Wood
The horrific attack took place at Colliers Wood Underground station in south London at approximately 10.30am on Wednesday, December 17. In the video, one man is seen lying defenceless on the platform while two others violently assault him. The attackers are shown stamping on his body and kicking him in the head four times.
British Transport Police (BTP) confirmed the brawl involved knives. Officers attended the scene and arrested a man in his 20s on suspicion of possessing an offensive weapon. The injured man was taken to hospital with injuries not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing.
A Pattern of Disorder on London Transport
This violent episode is the latest in a series of alarming incidents that have plagued the Tube network this year, leaving many commuters fearful. Earlier in the year, photos emerged online showing a dishevelled man brazenly lighting what appeared to be a crack pipe inside a crowded carriage, with children walking past.
In another shocking event in July, a brawl broke out on the steps of Highbury and Islington Station during rush hour. The chaotic fight, which saw a smartly-dressed man kicking another in the head, resulted in a screaming toddler being left on the floor amidst the fray. Commuters were forced to intervene to help a mother and her baby escape the violence.
Public Outcry and Ongoing Investigation
The footage from Colliers Wood provoked a strong reaction from Londoners online. One horrified witness could be heard exclaiming "Oi oi", while a woman called out, "That is unacceptable." Commenting on the violence, one social media user said it "actually made me sad," while another simply fumed, "Animals." A local resident lamented the area's decline, stating, "I lived in Colliers Wood in 2004. It was such a nice area."
The BTP has launched a full investigation and is appealing for witnesses. A spokesperson said: "Enquiries are ongoing, and anyone who has information or witnessed the incident is asked to contact BTP by texting 61016 or by calling 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference 211 of 17 December."
These repeated incidents have sparked serious questions about safety and enforcement on London's transport system. Despite assurances from Mayor Sadiq Khan that there are hundreds of enforcement officers across the network, passengers report feeling increasingly vulnerable, with some detailing regular encounters with drug use and violence during their commutes.
