British counterterrorism police have arrested a dual UK-Iranian national as investigators widen their inquiry into the suspicious activity discovered near RAF Fairford, the Gloucestershire military installation used by U.S. forces.
The 27-year-old man was arrested Thursday, October 1, in Westminster, London, on suspicion of preparation of terrorist acts under Section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006. Police also questioned under caution a 26-year-old British national and searched two properties in Westminster as part of the investigation.
The developments follow the arrest of five British men near RAF Fairford early Sunday. The men, all London residents between 23 and 25 years old, were initially detained on suspicion of offenses under the Explosives Act and subsequently on suspicion of preparing an act of terrorism. Police had responded after receiving reports of three suspicious vans near the base.
All five have since been released without charge on police bail. Counter Terrorism Policing stressed that their release does not mean they have been cleared. The men remain under investigation and are subject to conditions restricting their movements and contact with other people.
The investigation has also shifted toward the possibility of foreign-state involvement. Senior National Coordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing Vicki Evans said investigators are examining “all possible angles,” including whether a foreign state played a role.
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham said Wednesday that there were “strong indications” of Iranian involvement, although authorities have not publicly disclosed the evidence underlying that assessment. Iran has categorically denied involvement.
The Iranian connection has attracted particular attention because of RAF Fairford’s role in recent U.S. military operations. The base, about 80 miles west of London, regularly supports U.S. Air Force bomber deployments and has been used by American bombers involved in strikes against Iran.
The original incident triggered a major security operation in the village of Whelford near the base. About 85 households were evacuated and a 400-meter cordon was established while explosive-ordnance specialists examined three white vans. Subsequent reporting indicated that investigators found no viable explosive device.
“The investigation into circumstances surrounding events in Gloucestershire is hugely complex,” Evans said Thursday, adding that specialist teams are pursuing multiple lines of inquiry.
The 27-year-old arrested Thursday remained in custody as the investigation continued. No charges have been announced against him or the five men originally detained.