A significant security operation unfolded near RAF Fairford, a Royal Air Force base in Gloucestershire, England, after five men were arrested on suspicion of terrorism-related crimes. The arrests were made on Sunday morning, with police responding to reports of suspicious activity in the area. The base, which has historical ties with the US military, was the focus of a substantial police and counter-terrorism operation.
The incident began when police received a report about three suspicious vehicles heading towards RAF Fairford at 00:45 local time on Sunday. Five men were subsequently arrested near Welford, a village about two miles southeast of the base. A bomb disposal team was also deployed to examine several vehicles, with a 400-meter cordon established around them. The investigation is being led by counter-terrorism police.
RAF Fairford, located in the Cotswolds area, about four miles south of Fairford, has a long-standing relationship with the US military. The base has been used by US aircraft in recent years, including as a launch point for defensive strikes against Iran. The US military has stated that it is working closely with its British counterparts to monitor the situation and ensure the safety of US personnel and their families.
The five arrested men are being held on suspicion of preparing for a terrorist act and explosives offenses. They are currently in custody, with police confirming that they believe the situation is under control. US President Donald Trump stated that the suspects had planned to cause significant damage to the base, adding that they had been under surveillance for some time.
Around 85 families were evacuated from their homes in the surrounding area, with many relocated to a nearby leisure center. The center is providing accommodations for those displaced, with council officials stating that support will be offered to those affected. Residents reported being woken up early on Sunday and told to leave their homes, with some describing the experience as chaotic.
Eyewitnesses have described the events surrounding the arrests, with one resident reporting suspicious activity near the base earlier on Sunday. Another witness described seeing police arresting the suspects, stating that it was clear that a significant operation was underway. Local authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with the investigation.
The UK government has stated that it will take all necessary steps to protect the public, with Prime Minister Andy Burnham describing the incident as "extremely concerning". The Ministry of Defence has confirmed that it is working closely with US authorities to respond to the situation, although officials have declined to comment further on the ongoing investigation.
Key points
- Five men arrested on suspicion of terrorism-related crimes near RAF Fairford air base
- Investigation led by counter-terrorism police, with US military cooperation
- 85 families evacuated from surrounding area, with support offered to those displaced
