Police Find Petrol, Not Explosives, in Vans Near RAF Fairford

Counter-terrorism police have confirmed that no explosive devices were discovered during searches of three vehicles parked near RAF Fairford, though a quantity of petrol was found. The announcement came on Tuesday as authorities sought to clarify the nature of the security incident that unfolded early Sunday morning.

Five UK nationals, aged between 23 and 25, were initially arrested on suspicion of explosives offenses and later terrorism offenses. They were released on bail the following day, a move Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor described as an investigative decision grounded in strategy and experience. The men remain subject to stringent conditions regarding their movement and contact with others.

The incident began when a member of the public reported three suspicious vehicles in Whelford, a village directly east of the US-operated base. The caller told the BBC it was “pure luck” she had spotted the group, which included a large number of hooded and masked men blocking the road. She stated her belief that her emergency call foiled their plans.

Upon receiving the report, police established a 400-meter cordon and deployed a bomb disposal team. Consequently, 85 local residents were evacuated from their homes, although they were permitted to return as cordons were set to be lifted on Wednesday.

International attention has focused heavily on the case. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio asserted that evidence pointed to involvement by a “foreign actor,” while US President Donald Trump labeled the suspects as “terrorists” despite the lack of formal charges. In response, the Iranian embassy in London firmly rejected what it termed “unfounded and malicious speculations” linking Iran to the incident.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham chaired a Cobra meeting on Monday and urged the public against speculation while facts are established. Assistant Commissioner Taylor noted that officers are exploring multiple lines of inquiry, including potential links to proxies or individuals working on behalf of a foreign state.