Five Men Arrested Near US-Used RAF Fairford Airbase on Suspicion of Preparing Terrorist Act

UK Counter-Terrorism Police Probe Suspected Explosives Offences Near Airbase

London: British police have arrested five men near RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, an airbase used by the US Air Force, on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act and committing offences under the Explosives Act.

Counter Terrorism Policing confirmed on Sunday, September 27, 2026, that its officers are leading the investigation. Police said the arrests followed a report about three suspicious vehicles apparently travelling towards the airbase shortly after midnight. 

Five Men Arrested in Whelford

According to the Metropolitan Police, officers received a call at approximately 12:45 a.m. about the three vehicles. Armed officers responded and arrested five men in the nearby Whelford area.

The men were initially arrested on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act and were subsequently arrested on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act under Section 5 of the Terrorism Act. 

Police said the five men remain in custody while investigators work to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Major Incident Declared

Authorities declared a major incident in the area as a precaution. A 400-metre cordon was established around the vehicles, while the Army's Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit examined them.

Around 85 households were evacuated during the operation, police said. A nearby leisure centre was opened as a temporary safe location for residents who could not stay with friends or relatives. 

Security Tightened Around Airbase

RAF Fairford is a military airfield in Gloucestershire that has been used by the US Air Force. The arrests prompted increased security measures around the base, including a heightened police presence and restrictions in the surrounding area.

Reuters reported that the base has been used in connection with US military operations against Iran. 

Investigation in Early Stages

Counter Terrorism Policing said the investigation remains in its early stages and warned the public against speculation while officers gather evidence.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans, the Counter Terrorism Policing Senior National Coordinator, said investigators were working closely with partner agencies to understand what happened.

Police have appealed to anyone with relevant information to contact the authorities. 

No Final Conclusion About the Suspected Plot

The arrests are part of an ongoing investigation, and authorities have not publicly established the precise nature or intended target of any alleged attack. The five men have been arrested on suspicion and have not been convicted of any offence.

The investigation will determine whether the suspects were preparing an attack, what role the vehicles may have played and whether any explosives-related offence occurred.