Arrests and evacuations follow major incident near RAF Fairford
Gloucestershire Police say several men were arrested on suspicion of Explosives Act offences as properties in Whelford were evacuated and Army specialists examined vehicles.
Gloucestershire Police declared a major incident near RAF Fairford in south-west England, reporting the arrest of several men on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act and evacuations of properties in nearby Whelford.
The Army’s specialist explosive ordnance disposal team was examining a number of vehicles, police said. The material released did not specify how many men were arrested, their identities or the circumstances under investigation.
A Reuters eyewitness cited by France 24 reported armed police blocking access to the base’s main gate and about 30 emergency vehicles in Fairford village.
RAF Fairford is used by US forces. A US Air Force spokesperson said UK-based units remained vigilant and would take appropriate steps to protect personnel and installations.
Police have not confirmed a threat to the base or linked the arrests to any specific activity.
