Homes near an air base used by US forces in Gloucestershire have been evacuated following a 'major incident'. A number of residents in Whelford, near RAF Fairford, have been relocated to a leisure centre after several men were arrested on suspicion of offences under the explosives act.
Specialist teams examine vehicles
Specialist explosive disposal teams are currently examining several vehicles in the area, police confirmed. Gloucestershire Police said the incident had been contained, but a cordon remains in place.
The force said in a statement: '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.
'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.'
Possible threat level at base
The force did not confirm whether the arrests were connected with the incident at RAF Fairford, which hosts US Air Force personnel and serves as a base for the Iran war.
A local Facebook community group suggested the facility may be operating on FPCON Delta, the highest protection alert, indicating a specific or imminent threat.
