Residents near RAF Fairford have been evacuated from their homes due to a significant security incident involving suspected explosives, with the possibility they may need to remain away overnight while emergency services work to secure the area.
Around 85 households were evacuated following reports to police of three suspicious vehicles travelling towards the airbase at approximately 12:45am. Armed officers apprehended five men in the Whelford vicinity on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act; these individuals were also arrested on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts.
A 400-metre cordon has been established around the incident site to ensure public safety. Gloucestershire County Councillor Paul Hodgkinson described the event as “destabilising” and indicated that residents might have to stay away from their homes overnight.
READ MORE: Key Details From RAF Fairford Incident Press Conference
READ MORE: RAF Fairford Terror Plot: Key Facts and Timeline of Events
“This is not something we have experienced in Gloucestershire recently, and naturally it is concerning,” Councillor Hodgkinson said. “The goal of terrorism is to disrupt and unsettle communities, and while the full details of this incident are still unknown, we are treating it very seriously.”
A major incident has been declared by police, with a significant emergency services presence, including a Hazardous Area Response Team, supporting the operation. Aerial footage captured a bomb disposal robot examining three white vans within the cordoned area, two of which had their rear doors open. Large black barrels were also visible nearby.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans, senior national coordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing, stated: “We are in the early stages of this investigation. Five men are currently in custody as we work closely with Gloucestershire Police and other partners to gain a clear understanding of the circumstances and to keep the community safe.”
Locals recounted the events leading to the evacuation. Julian Tudsbery, a resident of 30 years, said a neighbour reported three suspicious vans in the village early Sunday, initially attempting to contact airbase police who did not answer, leading to a 999 call.
He was evacuated around 7am after police arrived in force, informing residents of a major incident without providing further details.
Jo, who has lived in Whelford for 18 years, described being woken and evacuated abruptly. “The police were knocking and wouldn’t leave until we left,” she said. “We had to grab whatever clothes we could and leave immediately, not knowing the full situation.” She also expressed concern for her dog, left behind amid the hurried evacuation.
Meanwhile, a local resident living near the base perimeter noted increased military security in recent weeks, including heavy vehicles stationed at gates and the placement of large concrete walls at various entrances. “It’s clear they are taking security seriously,” she commented.
This incident comes amid rising concerns over threats to the UK from hostile states, with Russia and Iran noted for employing proxies to carry out illegal activities on British soil.
Authorities continue to investigate and have urged the public to remain vigilant as the situation develops.