Several arrested as bomb disposal team examines vehicles near US-used air base in England
British police declared a major incident near RAF Fairford, evacuated nearby residents and said the situation was believed to be contained.
Fairford, United Kingdom. British police said on Sunday they had arrested several men on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act after declaring a major incident near RAF Fairford, an air base used by the US in southwest England. Army bomb disposal specialists were examining several vehicles, and nearby residents were evacuated.
Police response
Gloucestershire police said a number of properties in nearby Whelford were being evacuated. Police later said they believed the incident was contained.
A Reuters eyewitness said armed police blocked access to the base’s main gate and equipment was placed in front of access points. Residents of a nearby village were taken to a leisure centre. Around 30 emergency vehicles, including police cars, ambulances and fire engines, were stationed in Fairford.
Base security
The British government has authorised the US to use RAF Fairford for strikes on Iranian missile sites attacking ships in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards warned in July that any base used in strikes would be a legitimate target.
A US Air Force spokesperson declined to discuss specific force protection measures. The spokesperson said the 501st Combat Support Wing and other UK-based wings remained vigilant and would take appropriate steps to protect US service members, civilians, contractors and their families.
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