Commuter trains have been taken out of service following reports of a bedbug infestation.
The Telegraph reported that the issue affected Southeastern trains serving routes between London and Kent.
According to internal messages seen by The Telegraph, drivers have refused to board affected trains, prompting the cancellation of at least three services on Friday, and more since the first sighting on Sept 22.
The outbreak affects West Marina train care depot near Hastings, which serves routes between London and Kent.
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One train on Tuesday, nicknamed the "Bedbug Express" by insiders, did several journeys between London and Kent stations with two carriages locked and out of use, after a driver saw the insects at one end of the train.
A Southeastern spokesman told the Telegraph: "Four trains had been reported as having bedbugs on them, of which two were confirmed then cleaned before being returned to service."
Oly Turner, head of drivers at Southeastern, said: "We have a great relationship with our drivers, who have helped hugely in cooperating with us over these isolated incidents.
"When we receive reports such as these, we check trains thoroughly before they are put back into service when given the all clear.
"Cases have been contained to the drivers cabs in only two of our trains and no bed bugs have been identified in areas for passengers.
"We continually carry out robust cleaning across our trains and stations, ensuring our customers and employees can travel safely and with confidence."
Bedbugs are small, brown insects that hide in warm crevices and can cause spots and rashes through their bites.
Southeastern was contacted for comment.
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