Counter-terrorism police are leading the investigation after five men were arrested near an RAF base used by the US for attacks on Iran, on suspicion of explosives and terrorism offences.
A major incident was declared at RAF Fairford, a bomb squad was sent to the village of Whelford, and extra security measures were introduced, including strengthening the base entrances. Roadblocks and armed police have been seen in the area over the weekend.
The five men, detained early on Sunday morning, were first arrested on suspicion of explosives offences and later further arrested on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act, the Metropolitan police said.
Eighty-five households were evacuated to a leisure centre in the early hours of Sunday morning while the army's bomb squad examined three suspicious vehicles. Police said they were working to get local people back into their homes as soon as possible.
Materials were seized after the arrests by armed officers under the Explosives Act and are being examined to determine how dangerous they are and whether they could technically be used in an attack, the Guardian understands.
The operation was not intelligence-led, suggesting investigators had no prior knowledge of any potential plot.
Richard Ocone, assistant chief constable of Gloucestershire constabulary, said: "Around 12.45am today police received a call relating to three suspicious vehicles travelling towards RAF Fairford. Armed officers responded and subsequently arrested five men in the Whelford area on suspicion of committing offences under the Explosives Act. The men were taken into custody where they remain."
The general circumstances of the arrests and their proximity to RAF Fairford have led investigators to consider whether any plot was sponsored by Iran or another state. In July, a statement from Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps noted RAF Fairford's use by US bombers, warning the UK that "any base used for aggression against Iranian territory constitutes a legitimate target for our forces". Security sources said they were keeping an open mind about state involvement.
Julian Tudsbury, a resident of Whelford, said three "suspicious vans" had been spotted in the village and reported to police in the early hours of Sunday morning.
"Evidently, they phoned the airbase police, who didn't answer the phone," he said of the person who reported the sighting. "It just rang out so she dialled 999."
On Sunday afternoon, overhead pictures showed a remote-operated bomb disposal robot inspecting the three vans. The rear doors of two of the vans were open and large black items could be seen scattered around.
Tudsbury said he was evacuated at about 7am. "[The police] were then banging on the door, so I went downstairs in my dressing gown. There were several police, three police cars in the drive, and they said you need to evacuate, there's been a major incident," he said, adding that they couldn't elaborate.
The prime minister, Andy Burnham, was being updated on the matter from Liverpool, where the Labour party conference is taking place. He cancelled plans to take part in a journalists versus politicians football match in order to take calls about the incident.
A government spokesperson said: "The prime minister is being kept updated on the incident in Gloucestershire. We are grateful to the emergency services, who have acted quickly to detain several suspects and put measures in place to keep the community safe. It would be inappropriate to comment further whilst investigations are ongoing."
There have been protests in recent months over the British government's decision to allow the US to use RAF Fairford to carry out strikes on Iranian missile sites that are attacShips in the Strait of Hormuz. When Iran issued its warning in July, a government spokesperson said: "Our armed forces are ready to protect the United Kingdom from any kind of attack, whether at home or abroad. The UK is ready to defend itself 24/7." View image in fullscreen. Emergency vehicles at a football club in Fairford. Photograph: Toby Shepheard/Reuters. Gloucestershire police said: "A number of properties are currently being evacuated in the Whelford area after a major incident was declared. This follows the arrest of several men on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act. We are working closely with our partners and putting into action the well-rehearsed plans we have in place." A police spokesperson said the situation was contained and local people need not be alarmed. Defence secretary Wes Streeting said: "I would like to thank all the emergency and specialist teams who acted so quickly regarding the incident in Gloucestershire. We can be reassured that this is being dealt with, and it is exactly why our emergency response teams and armed forces are on standby 24/7." View image in fullscreen. A heavy vehicle positioned in front of a gate at the airbase on Sunday. Photograph: Getty Images. Armed police have been seen blocking access to the main gate of the base, and many emergency vehicles, including police cars, ambulances and fire engines, were visible on Sunday morning in Fairford, the town near the base. A spokesperson for the US air force said they would not discuss specific force protection measures. "The 501st Combat Support Wing and our fellow UK-based wings remain vigilant and will take appropriate actions to ensure the safety and security of our US service members, civilians, contractors and their families," the spokesperson said. "We constantly assess a variety of factors that determine what measures we institute or modify to protect our installations, our people and their families." The MP for South Cotswolds, Roz Savage, described the situation as "worrying" but said it was believed to be "contained". She said: "I have contacted the police for further updates and I've been told that it is believed the incident is contained. I would like to thank them for the work they are currently doing." In May, the Royal International Air Tattoo, which is usually held at the base, was cancelled due to the escalating geopolitical situation in the Middle East.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here is a list of FAQs based on the incident near RAF Fairford
What happened near RAF Fairford
Five people were arrested on suspicion of terrorism offences following a major incident near the RAF base in Gloucestershire
When did this happen
The incident and arrests took place recently prompting a significant response from police and emergency services
Where exactly is RAF Fairford
RAF Fairford is a Royal Air Force station located in Gloucestershire England It is currently used by the United States Air Force
Who was arrested
Five individuals were arrested by police on suspicion of terrorism offences
What does suspicion of terrorism offences mean
It means police believe the people arrested may have been involved in planning or carrying out acts of terrorism but they have not yet been charged or convicted
Have the arrested people been charged
Not yet They are being held for questioning while police investigate
What is a major incident
A major incident is a serious event that requires a large and immediate response from police ambulance fire and other emergency services
Was anyone hurt
Reports do not indicate any injuries to the public or military personnel at this time
Is there a threat to the public
Police have said there is no immediate threat to the wider public but the investigation is ongoing
Why was RAF Fairford involved
The arrests happened near the base but police have not confirmed whether the base itself was a specific target
What is RAF Fairford used for
It is a military airfield primarily used by the United States Air Force for bomber aircraft and other operations
What should I do if I live nearby
Follow advice from local police If you see something suspicious report it to the police by calling 999 in an emergency or 101 for nonemergencies
How can I get official updates
Follow Gloucestershire Constabulary and local news outlets for verified information
What is the difference between arrest and charge
Arrest means police have taken someone into custody for questioning Charge means police formally accuse them of a crime and they will face court
What happens next in the investigation
Police will question the suspects search for evidence and decide whether to charge them or release them This can take days or weeks
Can police hold someone without charge
Yes Under UK terrorism laws police can hold suspects
