Eighty-five households near RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire remain unable to return to their homes following the arrest of five men on suspicion of explosives offences, Temporary Chief Constable Maggie Blyth has announced.
Speaking at a press conference, Blyth said a cordon remains in place around three vehicles being examined by the Army's Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit near Welford. Counterterrorism Police are leading the investigation, and the suspected link to Iran is being explored.
Residents evacuated after arrests
Residents of the nearby village of Whelford were evacuated while police investigated. Blyth said the arrests "will no doubt have caused some shock and anxiety" and reassured locals that agencies are working closely together to support them.
She added: "As you know, five men were arrested near RAF Fairford during the early hours of this morning, and the Army's Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit continues to examine three vehicles near Welford. Counterterrorism Police are leading the investigation, so I'm unable to provide any additional information."
Political reaction
Prime Minister Andy Burnham confirmed he is receiving updates on the situation, which he described as "deeply concerning for local residents". He urged the public not to speculate while the investigation continues.
US President Donald Trump also commented, saying: "They were looking to do big damage to our fort, and working with the British worked out great. We had them under investigation. We had them under view for a long time, and we got them." He added: "The arrest in the UK was fantastic. Working with Britain, it was an amazing job. It may have been Scotland Yard, I don't know. We worked with a lot of them... Thank you."
Fairford has been used by the US for strictly limited strikes against Iranian missile sites under an agreement with former British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The origin of the thwarted operation is not yet known.
