Last Updated on September 27, 2026 by YeJahan
YEJAHAN DESK
LONDON (Sept 27): At least five suspects have been arrested on suspicion of explosives offences near a key US bomber airbase on Sunday, triggering a “major incident,” widespread evacuations, and the deployment of Army bomb disposal units.
The security operation around RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire follows recent British authorization for the US military to utilize the base to launch strikes against Iranian missile sites. Tehran’s Revolutionary Guards had previously warned that any installation aiding these operations would be considered a legitimate target.
Gloucestershire Police confirmed that the investigation is contained but active, with counter-terrorism officers now leading the inquiries.
Village evacuated in early hours
Residents in the nearby village of Whelford were woken by emergency services in the early hours of Sunday morning and ordered to leave their homes immediately as cordons were established around the base.
More than 30 emergency vehicles—including fire engines, ambulances, and armed police units—converged on the scene, while police helicopters monitored the perimeter from above. Heavy machinery was moved to block access points to the base’s main gate.
“A number of properties are currently being evacuated in the Whelford area following the declaration of a major incident,” Gloucestershire Police said in a statement. “It follows the arrest of several men on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act. The Army’s specialist explosive ordnance disposal team are currently examining a number of vehicles.”
Broadcasters film bomb disposal robots
Media footage from the scene showed three large white vans parked near the base, with a military bomb disposal robot operating close to the vehicles. Images published online appeared to show five men being detained by armed officers.
Downing Street stated that Prime Minister Andy Burnham is receiving regular updates on the situation but declined to comment further while the police operation remains live. The Home Office similarly refused to provide details on the identities or motives of those arrested.
Heightened security across British bases
A spokesperson for the US Air Force declined to discuss specific force protection measures at the base, which is managed by the 501st Combat Support Wing.
“Our UK-based Wings remain vigilant and will take appropriate actions to ensure the safety and security of our US service members, civilians, contractors, and their families,” the spokesperson said, adding that security factors are constantly being reviewed.
Security has reportedly been tightened at other US-operated facilities across the UK, including RAF Lakenheath and RAF Mildenhall in Suffolk.
The incident comes during a period of acute geopolitical tension. Beyond the threats issued by Iran over the Strait of Hormuz conflict, British intelligence ministers have recently briefed critical infrastructure providers regarding heightened risks of state-sponsored sabotage and cyber warfare linked to Russia, though Moscow continues to deny involvement in hybrid operations against Western targets.
Copyright YeJahan News Network, 2026
