Five Brits arrested and released on suspicion of terrorism at RAF Fairford

The five men arrested in Great Britain on suspicion of terrorism all have British nationality and are between 23 and 25 years old. According to the British police, “several new investigation approaches” have emerged. In the afternoon, counter-terrorism police chief Laurence Taylor said the men had been conditionally released from custody.

That doesn't mean the investigation is over, he said. Officials will examine every possible aspect of the incident, "including the possibility that it was committed by proxies or individuals, intentionally or unknowingly, on behalf of a foreign state," Taylor said.

They were arrested on Sunday night near the British military base RAF Fairford, which is used by the US Air Force. You are suspected of preparing a terrorist act. Investigations are also underway on suspicion of violations of the Explosives Act. The police speak of an “extremely complex and large-scale operation” involving local and national authorities, the Ministry of Defense and other agencies.

Iran rejects speculation

British media had previously speculated about a possible connection between the incident and Iran. Russian sabotage or an Islamist motive do not currently appear to be ruled out. According to a statement, the Iranian embassy in London firmly rejected the speculation and strongly condemned it. The speculation served "no other purpose than to further fuel anti-Iranian propaganda in the United Kingdom," it said.

Vicki Evans, Senior National Coordinator at Britain's Counter-Terrorism Police, said she was aware of the extent of speculation about the motives behind the incident and the geopolitical questions it raised. However, the investigations should be given the necessary space at this point in time so that they can work carefully and purposefully.

USA uses the base for Iran attacks

Fairford air base is owned by Britain but has been repeatedly used by US bombers in conflicts in the Middle East. American aircraft also took off from there during the Iran War. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned Britain in July not to allow US bombers to leave Fairford.

US President Donald Trump said the arrested men wanted to cause “great harm”. The arrest was great, said Trump.

Call from a resident

The village of Whelford, near the base, was evacuated on Sunday. A villager told British media that she called 911 after seeing three vans blocking a road and a group of men wearing hoodies and balaclavas. As a result, the arrests were made.

With information from Franziska Hoppen, ARD Studio London