STORY
Five men have been arrested after three suspicious vehicles were reported travelling towards RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire. Police received the report at around 12.45am on Sunday and armed officers detained the men in the nearby Whelford area on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act. They were subsequently further arrested on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act under the Terrorism Act.
Counter Terrorism Policing is leading the investigation, with all five men remaining in custody. A 400 metre cordon has been established around the vehicles while an Army explosive ordnance disposal team carries out examinations. Around 85 households were evacuated as a precaution, with a nearby leisure centre opened for residents unable to stay with relatives or friends. Police said they believed the incident was contained.
RAF Fairford is used by the United States Air Force and security has also been increased at other bases used by American forces in Britain. Prime Minister Andy Burnham said the incident would be deeply concerning to local residents and urged the public not to speculate while investigators established the facts. The Government said the Prime Minister was being kept informed and thanked the emergency services for acting quickly to detain the suspects and protect the community.