Police have confirmed that a quantity of petrol, but no explosive devices, was found in the vans that triggered a major security alert near an RAF base used by the US. Five men arrested on suspicion of explosives offences and later terrorism were released on bail on Monday, a decision described as investigative by the head of UK counter-terrorism policing.
Investigation update
In an update on Tuesday, Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor said: “We can confirm that no improvised explosive devices were found. However, a quantity of petrol was recovered.” He added that the five men remain under investigation and must adhere to strict bail conditions.
Villagers living near RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, dozens of whom were evacuated from their homes on Sunday morning, were gradually returning to normal on Tuesday.
Official statement
Mr Taylor said: “The safety of the public is at the forefront of our investigative decision making, and this was certainly the case yesterday.” He acknowledged the surprise caused by the development but reiterated that it was an investigative decision grounded in experience and careful consideration of policing powers.
