UK Counter-Terror Police continues probe on suspected terror act near RAF Fairford, 5 arrested over preparation of terrorist act
Five London men arrested near RAF Fairford on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act and explosives offences as UK counter-terrorism probe continues.
London, UK — The United Kingdom's Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) has confirmed that investigations are ongoing following a suspicious incident near the strategic RAF Fairford airbase in Gloucestershire. The operation has resulted in the arrest of five individuals suspected of involvement in a terrorist plot.
Five London Residents Arrested
Following reports of three vehicles traveling toward the airbase after midnight on Sunday, authorities moved in to secure the area. The suspects, all identified as UK nationals aged between 23 and 25, are residents of London. They were apprehended in Whelford on Sunday morning.
The suspects are currently being held under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE), with custody extensions granted until Monday. They face serious allegations, including offences under the Explosives Act and the preparation of a terrorist act under Section 5 of the Terrorism Act.
Large-Scale Security Operation Deployed
The scale of the response has been massive, involving a coordinated effort between local and national police forces, the Ministry of Defence (MOD), and various local agencies. Due to the sensitive nature of the site, significant resources, including military assets, remain deployed at the scene.
A cordon remains in place around the location, with authorities planning to review its necessity later on Monday. RAF Fairford, a critical strategic facility often used by US military aircraft and strategic bombers, remains under heightened security.
Investigation Complexity and Public Safety
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans, the CTP Senior National Coordinator, characterized the ongoing investigation as a "hugely complex and large-scale operation." While acknowledging the disruption caused to local communities, Evans emphasized that the intensive activity is essential for national security and public safety.
"I know this has been incredibly disruptive for local people, but I’d like to reassure them that our activity is in the interest of national security, but most importantly in the interest of their own safety," Evans stated.
Caution Against Speculation
As the investigation progresses, police are working to establish the full circumstances of the incident, including the suspects' motivations and level of knowledge. Authorities have issued a plea to the public to avoid speculation regarding the possible geopolitical implications or the specific motivations behind the suspected act.
Gloucestershire Police had previously declared a major incident as a precautionary measure for residents living near the village of Whelford. Investigators are currently following multiple new lines of enquiry as they work to unravel the details of the suspected plot.