5 arrested over suspected terrorist plot near RAF Fairford

Fairford : Five men have been arrested after three suspicious vehicles were reported travelling towards RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, prompting a major security operation and the evacuation of dozens of homes.

The men are being held on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act and offences under the Explosives Act. Counter Terrorism Policing and Gloucestershire Police are leading the investigation, which is still in its early stages.

The incident began at about 00:45 BST on Sunday after suspicious activity was reported near the airbase. An Army explosive ordnance disposal team was sent to examine vehicles found in the area, while a 400m cordon was put in place.

Residents of nearby Whelford were evacuated during the operation. About 85 households were advised to leave their homes, with temporary accommodation arranged for those unable to stay with family or friends.

Police said the situation was contained but residents were told they could not return home overnight.

RAF Fairford is used by the United States Air Force (USAF) and has a long association with the US military. A USAF spokesperson said personnel remained vigilant but did not provide details of security measures.

The five men were initially arrested by Gloucestershire Police over explosives-related offences before being further arrested on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act. Police have said the operation was not intelligence-led.

US President Donald Trump said the suspects had been under observation and were allegedly planning to cause major damage. UK Defence Secretary Wes Streeting said he had spoken to US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth.

The US Department of Defence also raised the security threat level at RAF Lakenheath in Suffolk, home to the USAF's 48th Fighter Wing, to its second-highest category.

Police said the investigation remained ongoing.