RAF Fairford Suspects Released on Bail as Counter-Terror Investigation Continues
The five British nationals were arrested early Sunday after police received a report about suspicious vehicles near the military base. They were initially detained on suspicion of explosives offences and were later arrested on suspicion of preparing an act of terrorism.
The men, who are all from London and aged between 23 and 25, have not been charged. Police said they remain under investigation following extensive interviews and further inquiries.
Counter-Terror Police Confirm Bail Release
Taylor stressed that their release does not mean the investigation has ended. He said the men would be subject to stringent conditions covering their movement and contact with other people.
The senior counter-terrorism officer said investigators were continuing to examine multiple lines of inquiry as they seek to establish what the men were doing near RAF Fairford and whether there was a wider motive behind their actions.
Three Vans Found Near the Base
The arrests followed reports of three vans in the area around RAF Fairford. A local farmer reportedly alerted authorities after encountering the vehicles near the village of Whelford.
Police subsequently established a cordon around the area while bomb disposal specialists examined the vehicles.
Police and military personnel remained at the scene as investigators worked to assess whether any material found in or around the vehicles posed a threat.
Possible Foreign Connection Being Investigated
Counter-terrorism officers have also been examining whether the incident could have a connection to a foreign state.
Taylor said investigators were keeping an open mind about the possible motivation. He said one line of inquiry was whether individuals could have been acting as proxies, either knowingly or unknowingly, for a foreign government.
Reports have identified Iran as one possible area of investigation. However, British authorities have not established that Iran was responsible for the incident.
Iran’s embassy in London has denied involvement and rejected reports linking Tehran to the arrests.
Investigation Remains Ongoing
The release of the five men on bail means investigators now have additional time to examine evidence and establish the full circumstances of the incident.
Police have not announced charges against any of the suspects.
The case comes amid heightened security concerns in Britain and increased attention on possible threats linked to the wider geopolitical situation.
For now, counter-terrorism officers say the investigation remains open, while the five suspects remain subject to police bail conditions.
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