Bournemouth University put on lockdown after man in fitness vest mistaken for suspected suicide bomber

Bournemouth University was placed on lockdown after a man's fitness vest was mistaken for a suicide vest.

Dorset Police were called at around 2.30pm on Friday regarding a "security alert relating to a man seen in the area of the Boundary roundabout near Bournemouth University".

Staff and students were reportedly not allowed to leave the building as Talbot Campus was put on lockdown.

Police said: "An initial report suggested the man could be wearing something that resembled a suicide vest.

"As a precaution, the university was placed on lockdown as searches of the area were carried out.

"Officers attended the scene and undertook an investigation, including a review of CCTV footage, and it was established that it was believed to be someone running in a fitness vest."

Here’s the scene outside at #Bournemouth University. The SUBU building on the left here is where an incident occurred. pic.twitter.com/9qac9TNvl6

— Adam McGroarty (@AdamMcGroarty1)

January 10, 2020

Doors being guarded to prevent students and staff going outside. pic.twitter.com/Gcb475o6YU

— Nerve Now (@NerveNow)

January 10, 2020

The university later tweeted to say Talbot Campus reopened just after 4pm and Dorset Police said it does not believe there is any further cause for concern.

Bournemouth University has been approached for further details.

We can confirm that our Talbot Campus is now reopen - thank you for your cooperation during this time.

— Bournemouth Uni (@bournemouthuni)

January 10, 2020

University buses were temporarily suspended and a police helicopter was dispatched to the scene.

Students kept inside university buildings posted on social media about the police incident.

One wrote: "Fusion building is on lock down not allowing any students to leave."

"Bournemouth uni is on lockdown & there's police and a helicopter I'm trapped in the library," another wrote.