Five men were arrested this Sunday (27) in the United Kingdom on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act near RAF Fairford, a British air base that is also used by the United States Air Force.
The men are also suspected of committing crimes under the British Explosives Act, which regulates the manufacture, storage, transport and use of explosives. Counterterrorism agents are leading the investigation.
Police declared a “serious incident” in the region and evacuated residents from some properties near the base. A specialist British Army explosive ordnance disposal team was sent to examine several vehicles.
Police said they believe the situation is under control.
What happened
The operation took place in the Whelford area, a village close to RAF Fairford. According to Gloucestershire Police, several properties were evacuated following the arrest of the five men.
Around 30 emergency vehicles, including police cars, ambulances and fire trucks, were seen in the region. A helicopter also flew over the site.
Images released by the British press showed a robot used to deactivate explosives working near three white vans.
So far, authorities have not released the identities or nationalities of the five men.
It was also not known what alleged terrorist act they were preparing.
Understand what the UK Explosives Law is
The Explosives Act 1875 is a British law created in the 19th century to establish rules about explosives.
The legislation deals with activities such as the manufacture, storage, transport and use of explosives and provides for crimes related to non-compliance with these rules.
In this Sunday's case, therefore, there are two fronts of suspicion against the men: the preparation of a terrorist act and possible infractions related to explosives.
Arrest for an offense under the Explosives Act does not in itself mean that the police have concluded that a terrorist attack has occurred. The investigation is still trying to determine exactly what happened.
Why the air base is important
RAF Fairford is a British Royal Air Force base, not a United States military installation. It is also used by military personnel and aircraft of the American Air Force.
The United Kingdom authorized the US to use the base in operations against Iranian missile facilities. RAF Fairford was used in American operations related to the conflict and attacks against Iranian targets.
Therefore, the movement in the region gained international attention.
In July, Iran's Revolutionary Guard had threatened to consider bases used in attacks against the country as legitimate targets.
The British government stated at the time that its Armed Forces were prepared to protect United Kingdom territory.
Security has also been beefed up at other British bases used by the US, including Lakenheath and Mildenhall, according to press reports.
US says it monitors security
A US Air Force spokesperson said US units stationed in the UK remain vigilant.
According to him, military authorities continually evaluate different security factors to decide which measures should be adopted or modified to protect military personnel, civilian employees, contractors and their families.
The British government said it would be inappropriate to comment on details while the investigation is ongoing.
To date, authorities have not stated that the five men planned to attack RAF Fairford, nor have they established a link between the arrests and previous threats made by Iran.
