British counterterrorism police are investigating a suspected terrorism incident near RAF Fairford, the Gloucestershire air base used by both the Royal Air Force and U.S. forces, after five men were arrested early Sunday, September 27.
Police said they received a report at approximately 12:45 a.m. on September 27 that three suspicious vehicles appeared to be traveling toward RAF Fairford. Armed officers responded and arrested five men in the nearby Whelford area on suspicion of offenses under Britain’s Explosives Act. The men were subsequently arrested on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act under Section 5 of the Terrorism Act. All five remained in custody Sunday.
Authorities declared a major incident and established a 400-meter cordon around the vehicles while an Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal team conducted examinations. Approximately 85 households were evacuated as a precaution. Police said the incident appeared to be contained and urged the public not to speculate about the suspects’ motives while the investigation continues.
RAF Fairford has particular strategic significance because it hosts U.S. Air Force personnel and aircraft and has been used as a staging point for American long-range bomber operations. This year, U.S. B-1 and B-52 bombers have operated from Fairford in connection with military operations against Iran.
Security around the installation had reportedly been increased in recent days, with additional barriers and armed personnel observed near access points. The U.S. Air Force declined to discuss specific security measures but said personnel at Fairford remained vigilant.
Counter Terrorism Policing Senior National Coordinator Vicki Evans said investigators were still in the early stages of determining the circumstances surrounding the incident. Authorities have not publicly identified the five suspects or announced a suspected motive, and no charges had been filed as of Sunday morning.