British counterterrorism authorities are investigating a suspected terror plot after five men were arrested near a U.S.-operated air force base in England, with detectives examining possible links to foreign states or extremist groups.
The suspects were detained in the early hours of Sunday after three vans were spotted near RAF Fairford, a United Kingdom-owned military base that has historically been used by U.S. Air Force bombers during operations and conflicts in the Middle East.
Police said the five men, all British nationals from London and believed to be in their 20s, were initially arrested on suspicion of explosives-related offences. They were subsequently detained on suspicion of preparing an act of terrorism as investigations intensified.
Authorities have not yet determined the motive behind the incident or whether it was backed by a foreign state. Investigators are exploring several possibilities, including potential links to Iran, Russia, or non-state militant organisations. RAF Fairford has previously attracted attention from anti-war activists due to its strategic military role.
Iran has strongly denied any involvement in the matter. In a statement, the Iranian Embassy in London said it “categorically rejects and strongly condemns the recent unfounded and malicious speculations” linking the country to the incident.
As part of the security operation, residents from 85 homes in the nearby village of Whelford were evacuated on Sunday while army bomb disposal experts examined the three white vans using a remote-controlled robot.
As of Monday morning, residents had not yet been allowed to return to their homes, while authorities continued their investigations and forensic examinations of the vehicles. The vans also remained at the scene pending further security assessments.
Under UK terrorism legislation, the suspects can be held for up to 14 days before authorities must either charge them with an offence or release them.
The investigation remains ongoing as security agencies work to determine the nature of the threat and whether the arrests prevented a planned attack on or near the military installation.
