Counter Terrorism Policing has confirmed that five men arrested over a suspected terror plot near RAF Fairford are British nationals from London, all aged in their 20s. The suspects, aged between 23 and 25, were detained in the early hours of Sunday after armed officers stopped three suspicious vans travelling toward the US-used military base in Gloucestershire. The men were initially arrested on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act before also being questioned over the alleged preparation of a terrorist act. The incident triggered a major emergency response, with bomb disposal specialists examining the vehicles and residents from around 85 homes in the nearby area being evacuated. Police said the operation was not intelligence-led and began after a local farmer reported seeing suspicious vehicles and masked men close to the base. A large cordon was subsequently established while investigators assessed the potential threat.

Authorities have urged the public not to speculate about the motive as the investigation continues. Counter Terrorism Policing said several lines of inquiry are being pursued, including questions surrounding possible overseas links, although no connection has been established. Iran’s embassy in London has strongly rejected suggestions that Tehran was involved, calling such claims unfounded. US authorities have also warned American citizens in Britain to remain cautious around US-linked facilities and gatherings. Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans described the investigation as complex and emphasized that national security and public safety remain the priority. Police thanked residents for their cooperation during the evacuation and said the cordon would remain while forensic and explosive teams continued their work. The five suspects remained in custody as officers sought to establish exactly what was planned, whether any explosives were intended for use, and whether the incident formed part of a wider threat.