Five men are currently in custody as counter-terrorism officers investigate a major incident near RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire. Gloucestershire Police confirmed they were called around 00:45 BST regarding three vehicles behaving suspiciously while traveling toward the military installation.
Authorities ordered the evacuation of residents in the nearby village of Whelford. Those displaced have been relocated to a local leisure centre while the investigation remains active.
The base, operated by the US Air Force, has been utilized since March for launching strikes against Iran. BBC correspondent Duncan Kennedy is reporting from the scene as security operations continue.
Five arrests near a strategic base is serious news. Let’s hope counter-terrorism got the right answer before any real damage could have occurred.
Evacuating Whelford seems drastic for three suspicious cars. Hope those residents get back home soon and this isn’t just another overreaction.
Honestly, the timing with US strikes starting in March feels too convenient. I wonder how much of this is real threat vs political theater?