British police announced on Sunday that five individuals were arrested on suspicion of offenses under the explosives act near RAF Fairford, a significant air base hosting U.S. forces in Gloucestershire, England. The arrests followed the declaration of a major incident, prompting the evacuation of several properties in the Whelford area, located approximately two miles from the air base.
Gloucestershire Police stated that the Army's specialist explosive ordnance disposal team is examining multiple vehicles in the area. President Donald Trump commented that the suspects had been under surveillance for an extended period, suggesting they intended to cause significant damage to the U.S. Air Force base. He described the arrest as a successful collaboration with British authorities.
The U.S. military has utilized RAF Fairford as a hub for operations against Iran, although no direct connection to Iran has been confirmed by authorities. Local residents were evacuated to a nearby recreation center as a precautionary measure, and a 400-meter cordon was established around the suspect's vehicles.
Assistant Chief Constable Richard Ocone reported that police acted after receiving a call about three suspicious vehicles approaching the base at 12:45 a.m. The five men remain in custody, and local police are collaborating with counter-terrorism units on the investigation. Counter Terrorism Policing confirmed that the men were also arrested on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act.
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham urged the public not to speculate about the incident, emphasizing the safety and security of the public as the top priority. He expressed gratitude to residents for their cooperation during the precautionary checks. British Defense Secretary Wes Streeting assured the public that emergency response teams are on standby, while Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood thanked emergency services for their prompt response.
A spokesperson for the U.S. Air Force 501st Combat Support Wing expressed appreciation for the local law enforcement's swift response, reiterating the commitment to the safety and security of airmen and surrounding communities. Amid heightened threat levels at U.S. air bases in the U.K., the 48th Fighter Wing stated that it remains vigilant and will take necessary actions to ensure safety and security.