Terror Alarm at U.S.-Used Military Base: 5 People Arrested

In the Gloucestershire region of England, a surge of activity unfolded near RAF Fairford, a military base also used by the U.S. Air Force. Following reports that three suspicious vehicles were heading toward the base, an operation was launched that detained five people on suspicion of crimes linked to explosives and “preparation for a terrorist act.” British counter‑terrorism police said the incident is being investigated in all its aspects.

Three vehicles moving toward the base prompted police action.

The incident began with a police tip received at 00:45 local time on Sunday, September 27. The tip alleged that three suspicious vehicles were heading toward RAF Fairford.

After armed police units were dispatched to the area, five men were arrested around Whelford. The suspects were first detained for offenses under the Explosive Substances Act, and later for “preparation for a terrorist act” under the Terrorism Act.

According to an update from British authorities on September 28, all suspects are British citizens living in London. Their ages were stated to be between 23 and 25. Police are trying to determine the suspects' connection to the incident, what they know, and possible motivations.

Eighty‑five households were evacuated as a precaution.

After the operation, a 400‑meter security perimeter was established around the suspect vehicles. While British Army‑affiliated bomb disposal teams inspected the vehicles, about 85 households were requested to be evacuated for security reasons.

A nearby rest area was opened as a temporary evacuation point for residents who had to leave their homes. Police said they believed the incident was under control, though investigations were ongoing.

The counter‑terrorism unit took over the investigation.

The investigation is being conducted by the United Kingdom’s Counter‑Terrorism Policing unit. Officials said that specially trained teams were inspecting the site overnight and that several new investigative leads had emerged as part of the inquiry.

While noting that the operation was extensive, police recorded that the Ministry of Defence and local agencies were working together, with a significant number of personnel, including military elements, deployed in the area. Officials urged the public not to speculate on the suspects’ motivations.

Trump: They wanted to cause massive damage.

U.S. President Donald Trump also made a statement about the incident. Responding to reporters' questions at Chicago O’Hare International Airport, Trump said that cooperation with British authorities was underway and that the suspects intended to cause "great damage" to the base. According to Reuters, Trump also said that the suspects were under investigation by British and U.S. authorities.

RAF Fairford, although located in the United Kingdom, is known as one of the strategic airbases also used by U.S. military forces. Following the incident, security measures at the base and its surroundings were increased, while British authorities emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and that the suspects' exact motivation has not yet been determined.