UK Police Arrest Men Near US Air Base Over Explosives

The Gloucestershire Constabulary declared a major incident in the village of Whelford on Sunday, September 27, after arresting several men on suspicion of offenses under the Explosives Act. The operation led to the evacuation of multiple properties, with residents relocated to a nearby leisure centre, and the closure of Horcott Road in both directions from the Kempsford turning to RAF Fairford.

British Army specialist explosive ordnance disposal teams deployed to the scene to examine several vehicles. While authorities established a cordon, police stated the incident was contained. The British Defense Ministry confirmed the detentions, and Prime Minister Andy Burnham is receiving updates on the situation.

The incident occurred near RAF Fairford, a base used by the United States Air Force Global Strike Command to load B-52 and B-1 bombers for strikes against Iranian missile sites. The United States Air Force stated it remains vigilant to ensure the security of service members, civilians, and contractors, though it declined to discuss specific force protection measures. The event follows warnings from Iran's Revolutionary Guards in July, which characterized UK bases used by the US as legitimate targets.