Several Men Arrested Near RAF Fairford Over Explosives Offences
Several men were arrested near RAF Fairford in England. They are suspected of explosives offences under the Explosives Act.
The air base is in Gloucestershire in southwest England. Leaders declared a major incident in nearby Whelford not at the base.
Police evacuated homes near the air base. Evacuated residents were taken to a nearby leisure center.
Counter-terrorism police are leading the investigation. Police said the incident was contained.
But police have not confirmed a link to the base. Authorities then sent a bomb squad to Whelford.
Army bomb disposal experts examined several vehicles near the base. Extra security measures included fortified entrances and roadblocks.
RAF Fairford is used by US forces. The US Air Force has used the base for strikes on Iran.
Reports say Iran warned Britain about that use. No connection between the arrests and this use has been confirmed.
Key Terms 4
- RAF Fairford An air base in England used by British and US forces.
- Explosives Act A UK law that controls the handling of dangerous explosives.
- Whelford A small village located near RAF Fairford.
- Counter-terrorism police A UK police unit that investigates terrorism-related crimes.