A teenager has suffered potentially life-changing injuries after falling onto a live rail during an attack at Kent railway station last night.

The 16-year-old boy is said to have been assaulted by a gang of young men, some said to be wearing balaclavas, who also stole his girlfriend's bag before fleeing the scene.

Emergency services descended on Westgate station, near Margate, shortly after 6pm and the victim was taken to hospital by ambulance where he remains in a serious condition.

Officers investigating the attack have described it as "disturbing" and are appealing for witnesses.

Det Insp Gary Pinner said: “This is a disturbing incident which has left a teenager in a serious condition in hospital, and there will be a number of reassurance patrols taking place in the area over the next few days .

"I would urge anyone who witnessed the incident or anything suspicious in the area at the time to get in touch with us as soon as possible, as this information could be vital to our investigation."

A 16-year-old male has been arrested in connection with the incident and remains in police custody.

Anyone with information should text 61016 or call 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference 391 of 26/09/21 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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