Five men have been arrested on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act following police intervention involving three vehicles en route to RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire. Acting on a telephone tip-off, armed officers from Gloucestershire Constabulary intercepted the vans heading towards the military base.
RAF Fairford is used by the US Air Force, which recently received authorisation from the UK Government to utilise the base for operations targeting Iranian missile sites responsible for attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz.
The arrests were made in the Whelford area, initially on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act. Subsequently, the Metropolitan Police confirmed the men were also detained on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act.
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Assistant Chief Constable Richard Ocone of Gloucestershire Constabulary stated: “At approximately 12.45am today, police received a report concerning three suspicious vehicles travelling towards RAF Fairford. Armed officers responded promptly, resulting in the arrest of five men on suspicion of Explosives Act offences. They remain in custody.”
Authorities established a 400-metre cordon around the vehicles while the Army’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit conducted a thorough examination. As a precautionary measure, around 85 households in the vicinity were advised to evacuate their homes during the investigation.
A robot has been deployed to inspect the vans closely.
ACC Ocone also confirmed that a nearby leisure centre has been opened to accommodate those unable to stay with family or friends. The police are collaborating closely with counter-terrorism partners.
The Metropolitan Police released a statement confirming that Counter Terrorism Policing is leading the investigation into the incident near RAF Fairford.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans, Senior National Coordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing, commented: “We are in the early stages of this investigation and five individuals remain in custody. We are working closely with our partners to fully understand the circumstances and ensure community safety while gathering evidence.”
ACC Ocone emphasised that emergency services are well-trained for incidents of this nature. Work continues to establish the full details, with ongoing communication between local and national partners. He thanked the community for their patience and understanding during the disruption caused and reassured residents that efforts are underway to allow them to return to their homes as soon as it is safe to do so.