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Counter-terror investigation underway after major incident at RAF Fairford
Overview
Five men initially arrested on explosive and terrorism offences near RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire have been released on police bail under strict conditions. A major incident was declared after three suspicious vans were spotted near the airbase, leading to local village evacuations and a bomb disposal deployment. Counter Terrorism Policing is leading the investigation, and a sixth man—a dual UK-Iranian national—has also been arrested. UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated there are strong indications of Iranian involvement, which the Iranian embassy has strongly condemned.
Key points
- Five men aged 23 to 25 from London were arrested on suspicion of explosive and terrorism offences and have since been released on strict police bail.
- A sixth man, a dual UK-Iranian national aged 25, was later arrested in Westminster on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts.
- Police received calls regarding three suspicious white vans near RAF Fairford, prompting a major incident declaration and the evacuation of 85 households in Whelford.
- No improvised explosive devices were found during searches of the vehicles, though a quantity of petrol was recovered.
- Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated there are strong indications of Iranian involvement, while the Iranian embassy in London categorically rejected the speculations.