Five men arrested in connection with a suspected terror plot near RAF Fairford have been released on police bail, the police confirmed today. Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor, Head of Counter Terrorism Policing, announced the development during a press conference this afternoon.
All five suspects are British nationals in their twenties, hailing from London. They were detained in Whelford, Gloucestershire, in the early hours of Sunday, initially on suspicion of explosives offences, with terrorism-related charges considered later.
The arrests followed a 999 call from a Whelford resident who noticed three vans and a group of masked individuals near the RAF base. The discovery prompted the evacuation of numerous homes and the deployment of bomb disposal teams.
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Police and military presence remains substantial in the area today after the suspects were apprehended following reports of the three “suspicious” vans travelling toward RAF Fairford. As a precaution, nearly 30 residents were accommodated in a local hotel last night after a major incident was declared on Sunday, 27 September.
Counter Terror Police stated that a cordon remains in place, with plans to review the situation later today.
RAF Fairford, located on the Gloucestershire-Wiltshire border, is primarily utilised by the United States Air Force, serving as its European base for bomber operations in the Middle East for several months. The police response focused on the three vans near the base, with the Army’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team employing robotic equipment to inspect the vehicles' contents.
The Ministry of Defence emphasised its commitment to the safety and security of personnel, facilities, and surrounding communities following the incident.
US President Donald Trump stated that the suspected terror plot against the RAF base was “looking to do big damage.” Meanwhile, Iran’s London embassy issued a statement categorically denying any involvement in the alleged bomb plot.
Additionally, Andy Burnham is scheduled to chair a Cobra meeting this afternoon to address the suspected terror threat at RAF Fairford, as he informed LBC.