Counter-terrorism detectives are investigating whether Iran was behind a suspected car-bomb plot targeting US troops at RAF Fairford, after five men were arrested. Armed police detained the individuals, who were observed travelling in three vehicles, following an alert from a member of the public.
Arrests and Investigation
The five suspects were originally detained on suspicion of committing offences under the Explosives Act. They were subsequently re-arrested on suspicion of preparation of a terrorist act. The individuals were stripped to their torsos over concerns they might also have been wearing suicide vests.
President Donald Trump warned the suspected plotters intended to inflict "big damage", stating they had been "under investigation" for "a long time". Scotland Yard and MI5, working alongside American intelligence operatives, were attempting to establish whether Tehran masterminded the plot to murder American personnel stationed at RAF Fairford.
Public Alert and Evacuations
A frightened local resident in Whelford, Gloucestershire, contacted authorities after observing a "large group of hooded and 'balaclava'd' men" near the military installation during the early hours of Sunday morning. The farmer, who requested anonymity, said: "I saw a group of Middle Eastern-looking young guys running off through the trees. Some of them had masks or balaclavas on, and they all scattered ahead of us as we drove back past."
Explosive ordnance disposal specialists were sent to inspect devices discovered in the three vehicles, with approximately 85 households relocated from their properties to a neighbouring leisure facility during the operation. A remotely operated device from the Army's specialist explosive ordnance disposal unit manoeuvred between the three stationary vehicles, with what looked to be substantial black containers positioned outside the van.
Vehicle and Company Denial
One of the vehicles inspected by bomb-disposal units was marked with "FUEL 2YOU" on the side in red lettering, along with a telephone number. However, there is virtually no public trace of such a firm. A business with a comparable name, Fuel 2U, confirmed to the Daily Express that they owned two vans, and both were at their depot in London.
The firm released a statement saying: "We want to make it absolutely clear that neither the vehicle nor any of the individuals involved has any connection whatsoever with Fuel2U, its directors, employees or current business operations. We are extremely concerned that our company's name has been used without our knowledge or permission. We are cooperating fully with the relevant authorities and will assist them with any enquiries."
Official Response
Prime Minister Andy Burnham admitted the "incident near RAF Fairford will be deeply concerning for local residents and for many people following developments across the country." He added: "The safety and security of the public is our first priority, and I want people to know that we will always take every step necessary to protect our communities and keep our country safe. The investigation remains ongoing, and I would urge people not to speculate while the authorities establish the full facts."
