The head of counter-terrorism policing has confirmed that no improvised explosive devices were discovered in three vans found near RAF Fairford over the weekend, although a quantity of petrol was recovered during searches.
Police and military operations have continued in the area following the arrest of five men on Sunday, 27 September, after reports of three suspicious vans travelling towards the air base. The men, all UK nationals from London aged between 23 and 25, were taken into custody on suspicion of explosives and terrorism offences.
They were subsequently released on police bail on Monday, 28 September, and remain under investigation with strict bail conditions.
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Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor, Head of National Counter Terrorism Policing in the UK, provided an update this evening stating that, following extensive examination by police, military personnel and forensic experts, no improvised explosive devices were found in the vehicles. However, a quantity of petrol was recovered from the vans.
Mr Taylor noted that the investigation at RAF Fairford is expected to conclude tomorrow, 30 September, three days after a major incident was declared. He expressed gratitude to local residents of Whelford and surrounding areas for their patience during the ongoing operation and acknowledged the vital role the public had played by reporting suspicious activity.
He said: “Our teams acted swiftly following information received in the early hours of Sunday, including a public call regarding the vans near RAF Fairford. Through thorough searches of the vehicles and properties in London, which have now concluded, no explosive devices were found.”
Mr Taylor emphasised that the decision to release the men on bail was made after careful consideration, prioritising public safety. He thanked Gloucestershire Police and partners in both the UK and the US for their support throughout the investigation.
The closure of the investigative scenes around RAF Fairford will mark an important step towards restoring normality for the local community after the disruption caused by the incident.