Police have arrested five men on suspicion of explosives offences and preparing a terrorist act near RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire. The base is used by U.S. forces.
According to Gloucestershire Police, a call was received at around 00:45 on Sunday, 27 September, reporting three suspicious vehicles travelling towards the air base. Armed officers attended the Whelford area, about 3 km from the base, and detained the men. They were later also arrested on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act under Section 5 of the Terrorism Act. The suspects remain in custody and have not been named.
A major incident was declared. As a precaution, around 85 households were evacuated. A cordon of about 400 metres was placed around the vehicles. Army explosive ordnance disposal specialists were deployed and are examining the vehicles, including with a robot. Police said the situation is contained. Counter Terrorism Policing is leading the investigation with local officers.
RAF Fairford is used by the U.S. Air Force under an agreement. Since early 2026, U.S. bombers operating from the base have taken part in operations against Iran. Some media report that investigators are considering a possible Iran link; no official motive has been given. According to several reports, the operation was not intelligence-led and followed a call from members of the public.
U.S. President Donald Trump said those arrested “were looking to do big damage” and that American and British services had been watching them. British authorities have not separately commented on that wording. The investigation continues.
