A significant security incident unfolded near RAF Fairford on the Gloucestershire-Wiltshire border early on Sunday, September 27, prompting a large-scale response from military and police forces. Following the sighting of three suspicious vans, five men were arrested on suspicion of explosives and terrorism offences, leading to the evacuation of approximately 85 properties in the area.
As the situation developed on Monday, September 28, further details came to light about the arrests and ongoing investigation. Here are six important facts we have learned since yesterday:
- The five men who were apprehended were taken into custody under suspicion of offences related to the Explosives Act and preparation of a terrorist act under the Terrorism Act Section 5.
READ MORE: Eight key unanswered questions remain in suspected terror plot near RAF Fairford
READ MORE: Gloucester residents demand action over drug use and safety concerns in local park
-
All the individuals arrested are London residents in their twenties.
-
Despite their release on bail, counter-terrorism authorities emphasised that the investigation remains active. The suspects are subject to stringent restrictions on their movements and their communications as inquiries proceed.
-
Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor, head of UK Counter Terrorism Policing, confirmed that authorities are probing every possible angle, including the potential involvement of foreign state proxies, either with or without their knowledge.
-
The Iranian embassy in London promptly denied any connection with the incident, condemning allegations linking Tehran to the arrests as unfounded and malicious.
-
Authorities clarified that the materials discovered were not viable explosives, though examinations near RAF Fairford continue as police work to resolve the case.
In addition to these developments, Cotswold District Council provided further information on the evacuations that occurred during the incident. Around 85 homes were evacuated to ensure residents' safety, and nearly 30 individuals were accommodated overnight at a local hotel during the implementation of a 400-metre security cordon. At the peak of the crisis, approximately 60 people received support at a rest centre located at Cirencester Leisure Centre.
Although there were initial concerns that the situation might extend over several days, residents were permitted to return to their homes by Monday evening. The investigation remains ongoing as counter-terrorism police continue to examine the scene and pursue multiple lines of inquiry.