British counter-terrorism police have arrested a 27-year-old man of Iranian origin in London's Westminster area on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts linked to a recent security incident at RAF Fairford airbase. The arrest was made on Thursday, and the man is being investigated for potential involvement in the incident that occurred on Sunday. Five British men, all in their 20s, were previously arrested near the airbase and later released on bail.
The incident at RAF Fairford, which is used by US air forces, prompted a significant security response. Police found a quantity of petrol during searches of vehicles near the site, but no explosive devices were discovered. The five men arrested on Sunday were from London and were initially detained on suspicion of explosives offenses before being released on bail. Their ages range from 23 to 25, and four of them live in Westminster, while one resides in Camden.
National Counter Terrorism Police Coordinator, Vicki Evans, stated that investigators are exploring all possibilities, including potential foreign involvement. She emphasized that the investigation is complex and that officers are examining multiple lines of inquiry. Evans expressed gratitude to the public for their continued support and patience during the investigation.
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has suggested that Iran may have played a role in the incident. He told BBC that there are "strong indications" of Iranian involvement, although he did not provide further details. In response, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accused Burnham of "heading in the wrong direction" by accusing Tehran.
A second man, a 26-year-old British citizen, was also taken in for questioning under restraint. Police searched two properties in the area as part of the investigation. The arrested men are being held as part of an ongoing probe into the incident, which has sparked concerns about national security.
The incident has sparked a diplomatic row, with Burnham's comments drawing a rebuke from Iran. The UK government has been cautious in its response, with officials emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation before drawing conclusions. The incident has also raised questions about the security of UK military bases.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with police working to determine the circumstances surrounding the security breach at RAF Fairford. The arrest of the Iranian-origin citizen is part of a broader effort to understand the events leading up to the incident and to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Key points
- British police arrest 27-year-old Iranian-origin citizen on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts linked to RAF Fairford incident.
- UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham suggests "strong indications" of Iranian involvement in the incident.
- Investigation is ongoing, with police exploring all possibilities, including potential foreign involvement.
