Five individuals are in custody after a significant counter-terrorism incident unfolded at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, leading to a wide-scale police operation and the evacuation of dozens of homes. Bomb disposal units have been examining vehicles in a wooded area near the base, while Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) leads the investigation.
Gloucestershire Police were alerted to three suspicious vehicles heading toward the airbase shortly after midnight on Sunday. Officers arrested the five men near the nearby village of Whelford, approximately two miles from the base. The suspects were initially detained under the Explosives Act and subsequently charged with preparing acts of terrorism. Under current terrorism legislation, they can be held for up to 14 days without charge.
Aerial footage captured by the BBC showed a remote-controlled robot approaching two white vans in a restricted zone, though police have not officially confirmed the use of the device. A 400-meter cordon was established around the scene as specialists inspected the vehicles.
The operation prompted the evacuation of 85 households in the surrounding area. Residents were told they could not return home that night, with Cotswold District Council arranging overnight accommodation for those without alternative lodging. One resident described being woken abruptly in the early hours, while another noted the speed of the evacuation. A leisure center was set up as a temporary shelter for displaced families.
US military officials stated they are collaborating closely with UK authorities to ensure the safety of American personnel, their families, and the local community. US President Donald Trump commented on the arrests, stating that the individuals were intent on causing significant harm and had been under surveillance for an extended period.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham described the event as
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