British counter‑terrorism police are investigating a major security incident near RAF Fairford, a base hosting U.S. Air Force personnel, after arresting five men on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act.
The arrests took place in the early hours of Sunday after emergency services received a call about three suspicious vehicles moving toward the airbase. Armed officers quickly intercepted the suspects, detaining them at gunpoint.
Authorities advised around 85 households in Whelford village to evacuate as a precaution, while army bomb disposal experts were deployed to examine the vehicles. Emergency services, including fire crews and ambulances, were stationed nearby to secure the area.
RAF Fairford, located in Gloucestershire, is a strategic site used by the U.S. military for operations in the Middle East. The incident has heightened concerns about potential Iran‑linked plots, coming amid escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran.
Police confirmed that explosives and chemicals were found during the operation, though investigations are ongoing to determine the suspects’ motives and possible international connections. The swift response prevented what officials fear could have been a significant attack on UK soil.
