Police handling of earlier knife complaint investigated after Huntingdon train stabbings
The referral stems from a complaint by a man who was injured during an incident in Fletton in September
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is investigating Cambridgeshire Constabulary’s handling of an earlier knife-related incident after concerns were raised in the wake of the Huntingdon train stabbings.
The IOPC have announced they began their independent investigation yesterday (10th November 2025) following a referral from the force.
The referral stems from a complaint by a man who was injured during an incident in Fletton, Peterborough, on 27th September.
According to the complainant, police were alerted by a member of the public to a man armed with a knife.
Before officers arrived, the complainant said he was punched by the man, leaving him with facial lacerations. When police arrived, the suspect had left the scene and no arrest was made.
IOPC Director Emily Barry commented:
“Since the serious incidents on the London bound train from Peterborough on Saturday 1 November, we have been working closely with Cambridgeshire Constabulary to ensure that any complaints or conduct matters identified in its review are referred to us.
As a result of this complaint we will be investigating the force’s handling of this incident in September. We will keep the complainant and the force updated as our investigation progresses.”
The Huntingdon train attack happened on the evening of 1st November when passengers on the London North Eastern Railway (LNER) service travelling from Doncaster to London King’s Cross were stabbed.
The suspect, 32-year-old Anthony Williams, has been charged with 10 counts of attempted murder, one count of actual bodily harm, and possession of a knife after this incident. He has also been charged in relation to an earlier attack at Pontoon Dock DLR station that same day.
The only remaining victim in critical condition is Samir Zitouni, a 48-year-old customer experience host for LNER.
Zitouni acted to protect passengers during the attack.
Last week his wife shared the news that 'Sam' woke up briefly, and she was able to speak with him for a short time.
Deputy Chief Constable Stuart Cundy of British Transport Police emphasised the importance of supporting victims and conducting a thorough investigation into the train attack:
“The criminal investigation and support for the victims is a priority for British Transport Police. Our investigation is also looking at other possible linked offences.”
Cundy urged caution among the public regarding comments that could affect the ongoing legal case and investigation.
The IOPC is expected to provide updates on the progress of its investigation into the earlier Fletton complaint in due course.