AZE.US
British police arrested five men near RAF Fairford, an air base used by U.S. bombers in operations against Iran, on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act. A 400-meter cordon was imposed and about 85 homes were evacuated.
Police received a report early on Sept. 27 about three suspicious vehicles apparently traveling toward the base in western England, according to Vesti Baku.
Armed officers detained five men in the Whelford area. They were initially arrested on suspicion of offenses under Britain’s Explosives Act and were later also arrested on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act.
Army explosive-ordnance specialists were examining the vehicles. Police said the immediate incident appeared contained, although the investigation remained at an early stage.
Motive Has Not Been Established
Authorities have not disclosed the suspects’ identities or nationalities, and no motive has been formally established.
Investigators are examining possible links to Iran, potential Russian sabotage and an Islamist motive, Vesti Baku reported, while stressing that none of those theories has been officially confirmed.
President Donald Trump said the suspects had been preparing to cause “big damage” to the base and had been under scrutiny by British and U.S. services. British police have not detailed the acts the men are suspected of planning or officially confirmed what, if any, explosive material was found.
RAF Fairford Used by U.S. Forces
RAF Fairford is owned by Britain and used by the U.S. Air Force under arrangements dating to the Cold War. The base has supported U.S. bomber missions connected to strikes on Iranian missile sites.
Iran previously warned that military bases used for attacks on its territory could be treated as legitimate targets. Security was strengthened at other British facilities used by U.S. forces after the arrests.
Reuters confirmed that counterterrorism officers were leading the investigation and that the five men were being held on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act and offenses under the Explosives Act.
AZE.US