Understand
One of five men arrested near RAF Fairford called 999 himself before farmer raised alarm
Overview
One of the five men arrested near RAF Fairford on suspicion of explosives and terrorism offences had dialled 999 himself nearly an hour before a local farmer alerted the police. The suspects, all UK nationals aged 23 to 25, were later released on bail under stringent conditions as counter-terrorism police investigate the incident, which involved three vans and quantities of petrol found near the US-operated Gloucestershire base.
Key points
- One of the five arrested suspects called 999 at 00:45 BST, almost an hour before a local farmer reported suspicious men in balaclavas.
- The five men were arrested on suspicion of explosives and terrorism offences after three vans were spotted near RAF Fairford.
- Police searches found a quantity of petrol in the vans, but no explosive devices.
- The suspects were released on bail on Monday in what police described as an investigative decision based on experience and strategy.
- Counter-terrorism police are exploring multiple lines of inquiry, including potential involvement with a foreign state.
- Evacuated local residents have been allowed to return home, and police cordons are expected to be fully lifted.