Multiple Southeastern rail services were cancelled starting late September 2026 after bedbugs were discovered in drivers’ cabs on two trains. The incidents were first reported on September 22, 2026, leading to immediate isolation of the affected carriages and removal of the trains from service for cleaning and inspection.
Service Disruption on Kent and East Sussex Routes
The affected trains were based at the West Marina Depot in Hastings, a terminus for Southeastern trains arriving from London. These trains operate along routes connecting via Battle, Tunbridge Wells, and Sevenoaks. Southeastern confirmed all affected trains remain out of service until thorough treatment and inspections are completed.
No bedbugs were found
on High Speed 1 trains operated by Southeastern, which continue to run without issue. The company emphasized ongoing rigorous cleaning protocols for both trains and stations to maintain passenger safety.
Southeastern’s Response and Containment Measures
Oly Turner, Southeastern’s head of drivers, stated the bedbug cases were strictly confined to the drivers’ cabs on only two trains. He said there have been no reports of bedbugs in passenger areas. Turner highlighted the cooperation of drivers and the thorough checks conducted before trains return to service.
A Southeastern rail spokesperson described how trains identified with infestations were transported to suitable locations for inspection and treatment as necessary,
with affected carriages sealed off to isolate passenger areas from drivers’ cabins.
