Major Incident Near RAF Fairford: Men Arrested, Homes Evacuated
Major Incident Near RAF Fairford: Men Arrested, Homes Evacuated
UK counter-terrorism police are investigating explosives offences near RAF Fairford. Homes have been evacuated as bomb disposal experts examine vehicles. Stay safe and informed!
A major incident has been declared near RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, UK, following the arrest of several men on suspicion of explosives offences. Homes in the nearby village of Whelford have been evacuated as a precautionary measure, and an Army explosive ordnance disposal team is currently examining several vehicles.
UK counter-terrorism police are leading the investigation into the arrests, which took place early on Sunday. A Hazardous Area Response Team has also been deployed within a security cordon at the base, though authorities believe the incident is contained.
Gloucestershire Police stated they are working closely with partners and enacting well-rehearsed plans.
RAF Fairford is a significant United States Air Force (USAF) station, which has recently been used to deploy USAF bombers for operations in the country's conflict in Iran since February. In March, US forces began using British bases for "specific defensive operations" against Iranian missile sites, following permission granted by then-prime minister Sir Keir Starmer.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham is reportedly receiving regular updates on the evolving situation, with a government spokesperson commending the swift actions of emergency services. Defence Secretary Wes Streeting reassured the public that the incident is "being dealt with" and thanked all emergency and specialist teams involved.
While the USAF spokesperson for personnel based at RAF Fairford stated they "remain vigilant" and would not discuss specific force protection measures due to operational security, they affirmed that appropriate actions are being taken to ensure the safety of US service members, civilians, contractors, and their families.
They also emphasized continuous assessment of factors determining security measures.
Residents evacuated from their homes are understood to have been taken to a leisure centre in Cirencester, about 10 miles away. Laura Hall-Wilson from Cotswold District Council described it as a "very serious incident," confirming the evacuation to the leisure centre and awaiting further news.
