Suspected Terror Plot at RAF Fairford: Iran Link Probed After Arrests
Suspected Terror Plot at RAF Fairford: Iran Link Probed After Arrests
Five men were arrested on terror charges near RAF Fairford after a vigilant resident's 999 call. Counter-terror police are now investigating potential Iranian links to the suspected plot. Over 80 households evacuated in
Five men have been arrested on suspicion of explosive and terrorism offences following a dramatic police operation near RAF Fairford, a military airbase used by US bombers in Gloucestershire. Counter-terror police are now investigating whether Iran could be linked to this suspected terror plot.
Armed police intercepted three vans travelling towards RAF Fairford in the early hours of Sunday morning. The arrests took place in the nearby village of Whelford. US President Donald Trump later commented that the group was "looking to do big damage."
Crucially, this police operation was not intelligence-led.
The alarm was raised by a vigilant Whelford resident who dialled 999 after spotting suspicious vehicles "blocking the road" and a "large group of hooded and 'balaclava'd' men" at around 1am.
The resident believes her call disrupted their plans, stating, "It would appear that by doing so I just derailed whatever they were planning." Officers arrived approximately 15 minutes after she made the call.
The seriousness of the incident quickly escalated. A 400-metre cordon was established, leading to the evacuation of 85 households in the area, who were unable to return home overnight. Cotswold District Council was tasked with finding accommodation for some residents.
Aerial footage later showed a bomb disposal robot examining the three white vans, with large black barrels reportedly scattered around.
The men were initially arrested under the Explosives Act and subsequently re-arrested under suspicion of preparing a terrorist act. Detainees under the Terrorism Act 2000 can be held for up to 14 days without charge, significantly longer than standard arrests.
Temporary Chief Constable Maggie Blyth of Bedfordshire Constabulary confirmed that the matter was believed to be "contained." Prime Minister Andy Burnham described the incident as "deeply concerning," vowing that the government would "always take every step necessary" to protect people.
Investigators are now meticulously analysing any devices seized from the suspects to uncover details of the plot and its motivations.
This incident comes amid heightened concerns regarding threats from hostile states to the UK, with both Russia and Iran identified as having used proxies to commit crimes on British soil.
Officials noted a 50% increase in national security cases involving hostile state activity, including Iran, in the six months leading up to December 2025.
