Five men arrested over a suspected bomb plot involving RAF Fairford are all British nationals from London and aged in their 20s, police have revealed.
Counter Terrorism Policing has released further details about the suspects as its investigation into the major incident continues today (Monday).
All five men are aged between 23 and 25 and remain in police custody. Three are from the London borough of Westminster, while the other two are from Camden.
The men were arrested near RAF Fairford on Sunday after police received a report of three suspicious vehicles which appeared to be travelling towards the US airbase.
They were initially arrested on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act.
All five were subsequently further arrested on suspicion of preparation of a terrorist act, contrary to Section 5 of the Terrorism Act.
Counter Terrorism Policing has confirmed the suspects are all UK nationals and are being detained under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE).
Detectives are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the men’s alleged activity, their knowledge and any possible motivation behind the incident.
Counter Terrorism Policing Senior National Coordinator, Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans, said: “This is a hugely complex and large-scale operation, involving local and national policing, the MoD, and local agencies, who are working together to progress the investigation and support for the community.
“I know this has been incredibly disruptive for local people, but I’d like to reassure them that our activity is in the interest of national security, but most importantly in the interest of their own safety.”
The investigation began after police received a call at around 12.45am on Sunday concerning three suspicious vehicles travelling towards RAF Fairford.
Armed officers responded and arrested the five men in the Whelford area.
A 400-metre cordon was subsequently established around the vehicles while army bomb disposal specialists carried out examinations.
Around 85 households were advised to evacuate as a precaution, with a nearby leisure centre opened for residents unable to stay with friends or family.
A significant emergency services presence has remained in the area during the operation, involving armed police, specialist ambulance teams and fire crews.
RAF Fairford is operated by the US Air Force and supports American military operations, including deployments of strategic bombers.
The counter-terror investigation remains ongoing and police have not publicly established a motive for the alleged activity.
