Major Incident Declared and Village Evacuated Near RAF Fairford Following Arrests
Several men arrested under the Explosives Act as Army bomb squad examines vehicles near Gloucestershire base.
Quick Look
A major incident has been declared and homes evacuated in Whelford, near RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, after several men were arrested on suspicion of Explosives Act offences.
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Why It Matters
A major incident was declared in Whelford, Gloucestershire, near an RAF base hosting the US Air Force.
A "major incident" has been declared and homes have been evacuated in a village near an RAF base which hosts the United States Air Force.
Gloucestershire Police said residents in Whelford, near RAF Fairford, have been taken to a leisure centre while investigations continue.
Several men have been arrested on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act, police said.
The Army's specialist explosive ordnance disposal team is currently examining a number of vehicles.
Police said a cordon was currently in place in the area and added officers believed the incident was contained.
A large emergency services presence was seen in the area, including a Hazardous Area Response Team.
Gloucestershire Police said: "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."
"We are working closely with our partners and are enacting the well-rehearsed plans we have in place."
The base has been used to deploy US bombers since the conflict in Iran began on 28 February.
Open Questions
- What specific explosive offences were suspected?
- How many individuals were arrested?
