UK counter-terrorism police say five men arrested following a major security incident near RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire have been released on police bail, while investigations continue into possible links to a foreign state.
The men, all British nationals aged between 23 and 25 and from London, were arrested after three suspicious vans were reported near the airbase in the early hours of Sunday. Police declared a major incident and evacuated dozens of homes as armed officers investigated.
The suspects were initially detained on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act before being further arrested on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act. Their release is subject to strict conditions governing their movements and contact with others.
Investigation and possible foreign involvement
Counter Terrorism Policing said officers were pursuing multiple lines of inquiry, including the possibility that individuals acting on behalf of a foreign state were involved.
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Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor said the three vehicles had undergone extensive examination with support from military personnel and forensic experts. He stressed that investigators were considering every possible explanation.
A farmer who reported the suspicious vehicles said she spotted a large group of masked men near her home in Whelford, east of the airbase. She called emergency services at 01:36 BST, after which armed police arrived in the village within minutes.
Iran rejects speculation
The Iranian Embassy in London has strongly denied any alleged connection between Iran and the incident, describing speculation linking the country to the events as unfounded and malicious.
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The embassy warned that such claims could fuel anti-Iranian sentiment and said it reserved the right to take legal measures to protect the country’s interests.
The incident has drawn international attention because RAF Fairford has served as a forward operating location for the US Air Force for decades. US bombers have also used the base for operations in the Middle East in recent months.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said a foreign actor was clearly involved, but did not provide evidence or further details. US President Donald Trump also expressed surprise at the suspects’ release on bail.
Security measures remain in place
Gloucestershire Police confirmed that 85 households evacuated during the incident have been allowed to return home. However, a cordon remains around the three vehicles as forensic examinations continue.
Airspace restrictions have also been imposed within a five-mile radius of the base. Aircraft and objects including balloons, kites, parachutes and paragliders are prohibited from entering the restricted zone without permission.
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Authorities have not publicly established who, if anyone, was behind the incident. The five men remain under investigation, and the possibility of foreign-state involvement remains an investigative line rather than a confirmed finding.
