A wide-ranging investigation has been launched after a British man broke strict security measures at London Heathrow Airport and flew to New York without a passport or ticket, The Sun reported on Sunday. Reported.
Craig Sturt, 46, allegedly “tailgated” another traveler through security and passport checks at Heathrow Airport's Terminal 5. according to To the sun. He didn't stop there and reportedly took advantage of free food and drinks on board the British Airways flight before landing in the US. However, when he arrived, he was detained by armed police, discovered to have insufficient documentation, and deported to the UK on a chartered flight.
A major investigation begins after an unemployed British man allegedly followed another passenger to New York without a passport or ticket. https://t.co/4OApow7Jdz https://t.co/4OApow7Jdz
— The Sun (@TheSun) February 11, 2024
The story took a further turn on Christmas Day when Sturt was escorted to Metropolitan Police custody before being transferred to a hospital in Reading, where he was once again able to evade the authorities. Sturt has been missing since he escaped from the hospital. The violation has reportedly forced the interior minister to explain the incident. This breach is particularly alarming given the increased security measures and advances in technology since 9/11 to prevent such incidents. (Related: Police say prisoner climbed into escape taxi through hospital's fifth-floor window)
A warrant for Sturt's arrest was issued in the aftermath of his escape, and his account was widely disseminated in hopes of getting him arrested. Sturt remains at large, but he has also been seen withdrawing money in London. This raises concerns about the ease of travel at one of the world's safest airports.
