A major incident has been declared near RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire after several men were arrested on suspicion of explosives offences, police have said. Residents have been evacuated from the village of Whelford, and armed officers are manning a cordon near the airbase, which is used by the United States Air Force (USAF).
Armed police and emergency services at the scene
A large emergency services presence was seen in the area, including a Hazardous Area Response Team. Villagers have been evacuated to a nearby leisure centre, the force said. A cordon remains in place, with police stating that they believe the incident is contained.
A spokesperson for Gloucestershire Police said: “A number of properties are currently being evacuated in the Whelford area following the declaration of a major incident. It follows the arrest of several men on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act.
Army bomb disposal team examining vehicles
“The Army’s specialist explosive ordnance disposal team are currently examining a number of vehicles. The local residents are being evacuated to a nearby leisure centre.
“A cordon is currently in place but we’d like to reassure people that we believe this incident is contained.
“We are working closely with our partners and are enacting the well-rehearsed plans we have in place.”
