Two Latvian nationals have been detained on suspicion of national security breaches following allegations they unlawfully entered an RAF base in Cambridgeshire.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed the duo were discovered within RAF Molesworth during the early hours of Thursday (October 8), after security personnel spotted an abandoned vehicle and a minor breach in the site's perimeter fencing.
Arrest details
The suspects, aged 36 and 32, are both Latvian citizens residing in the UK. They were initially detained on suspicion of trespassing on a prohibited site and criminal damage before facing additional arrest under Section 4 of the National Security Act 2023, which covers entering a prohibited location for purposes deemed prejudicial to the UK.
Counter Terrorism Policing officers are spearheading the investigation while detectives simultaneously conduct searches at two properties in the Peterborough vicinity as part of the continuing operation.
Investigation ongoing
"We're very aware of the recent heightened interest and concern around military sites, but at this stage there is nothing to suggest this incident is connected to the events at RAF Fairford last week", said Commander Helen Flanagan, Head of Counter Terrorism Policing London.
"Our investigation into this incident is at its very early stages. A big part of this is looking at any potential motivation as to why the men were present at the site, but I must stress we are keeping an open mind at this stage and enquiries are very much ongoing."
"As ever, I would ask the public to remain vigilant and if you see anything of concern, then to contact police."
Public contact and collaboration
Members of the public who spot anything suspicious can get in touch with police in confidence by calling 0800 789321 or by reporting it online at www.gov.uk/ACT. Counter Terrorism Police are working in close collaboration with colleagues from the MDP and Cambridgeshire Constabulary as the investigation progresses.
