UK police arrest five men on suspicion of terror offenses near air base used by US forces

Five detained near RAF Fairford as bomb disposal teams examine vehicles

Earthguardiansonline.com – Five men have been taken into custody near RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire after police launched a counter-terrorism investigation involving suspected explosives and the alleged preparation of a terrorist act.

The operation began shortly after midnight on Sunday after local residents provided information to police. The area around the base, which is used by US long-range bombers during operations connected to the war against Iran, has since seen a major emergency response.

Army explosive ordnance disposal specialists were deployed to inspect three vehicles near the village of Whelford. As a safety measure, dozens of nearby homes were evacuated while the checks continued.

Investigation remains at an early stage

Richard Ocone, a senior detective in Gloucestershire, said the arrests followed information received from people in the area. Authorities have not publicly named the men or outlined a possible motive.

Vicki Evans, a senior officer with Counter Terrorism Policing, said investigators were still working to establish the full circumstances.

“We are in the early stages of an investigation, and five men remain in custody. As you would expect we are working closely with our partners to understand the circumstances of the incident.”

In addition to the suspected explosives offenses, counter-terrorism officers said the five men were arrested on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act. Under UK counter-terrorism legislation, police can keep suspects in custody for as long as 14 days before charges are brought.

The response underscored the seriousness with which officials are treating the incident. Investigators must determine whether any material recovered from the vehicles posed a viable threat, whether the suspects had a specific target, and whether other people or locations were connected to the inquiry.

Security focus on an important air base

RAF Fairford occupies a significant role in US military operations in Europe. The base has been used by US B-1 bombers involved in missions targeting Iran and serves as a forward operating location for US Global Strike Command, which manages long-range strike capabilities.

The 501st Combat Support Wing is based at Fairford. A US Air Force spokesperson said specific protective steps would not be discussed because of operational security concerns.

“For operational security reasons we will not discuss specific force protection measures.”

The spokesperson added that the unit remained alert and would take necessary action to protect US personnel, civilian employees, contractors and their families.

Residents had noticed heightened security around the site in recent weeks. One person, who did not wish to be identified, described heavy vehicles being positioned across the gates, including large tractors and other substantial equipment.

Such precautions can form part of a layered approach to protecting military facilities, particularly when a base has an operational role in an active international conflict. The measures may restrict vehicle access and provide additional time for security staff to respond to a potential threat.

Explosive disposal work continued through Sunday

Footage from above appeared to show a bomb disposal robot moving among three white vans in woodland close to the base. The rear doors on two vans were open, while large black objects could be seen on the ground nearby.

Later on Sunday, two sounds consistent with controlled detonations were heard near the perimeter fence at RAF Fairford, in the direction of Whelford. Gloucestershire Police said the Army’s explosive ordnance disposal unit was continuing to assess the three vehicles near the village.

Controlled detonations are commonly used by bomb disposal specialists to safely deal with an item that cannot immediately be identified or moved. Their use does not by itself confirm the nature of an object being examined, but it reflects the cautious approach taken during an explosives investigation.

A resident said helicopters were heard over Whelford at about 2 a.m., with bomb squad vehicles arriving roughly an hour later. Video published by the Daily Mail appeared to show several people being arrested during the early hours of Sunday. The individuals appeared shirtless with their hands held behind their backs.

Political and diplomatic response

US President Donald Trump welcomed the arrests, telling reporters in Chicago that the United States and Britain had been monitoring the men for an extended period.

“Working with Britain, it was an amazing job.”

“They were looking to do big damage to our fort and working with the British worked out great.”

“We had them under view for a long time, and we got them.”

The US Embassy in London advised Americans in the United Kingdom to exercise caution and remain attentive to personal security following the arrests.

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham thanked emergency responders and residents affected by the precautionary measures.

“I know today’s incident near RAF Fairford will be deeply concerning for local residents and for many people following developments across the country.”

Earlier, a government spokesperson said the prime minister was being kept informed and praised emergency services for moving quickly to detain suspects and introduce measures intended to protect the community. Officials said further comment would not be appropriate while the investigation remained active.

Defense Secretary Wes Streeting said the event demonstrated why emergency responders and the Armed Forces remain on standby around the clock. He said the incident was a reminder of the threats faced by the country each day.

For residents of Whelford and nearby communities, the immediate priority remains safety while specialists complete their work and police establish what prompted the operation. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not announced any charges.