Five men arrested near RAF Fairford released on bail

Five British men arrested near RAF Fairford over suspected terrorism and explosives offences are being released on police bail, Counter Terrorism Policing has confirmed. The men, all in their 20s and living in London, remain under investigation.

Investigation continues

Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor, head of Counter Terrorism Policing, said the arrests followed extensive interviews and inquiries. He stressed that the release does not mean the investigation has ended and said the suspects face strict conditions on their movements and contact with others.

Foreign state links investigated

Taylor said investigators were examining several possible explanations for the incident, including whether the activity could have involved proxies or individuals knowingly or unknowingly working on behalf of a foreign state. Police have not identified any country as being responsible.

Arrests near US-linked RAF base

The men were arrested early Sunday near Whelford, Gloucestershire, close to RAF Fairford, a base used by the US military. Police were called after reports of suspicious vehicles and a group of masked men in the area.

Explosives offences investigated

The suspects were initially arrested under the Explosives Act before also being held on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act. Police have not said that explosives were found at the scene.

Villagers evacuated

Around 85 households were evacuated as a precaution while specialist officers and bomb disposal teams examined vehicles and the surrounding area. Police said significant resources remained deployed as investigators continued their work.

Iranian involvement denied

The arrests have prompted speculation about a possible connection to Iran because of RAF Fairford’s use by the US military. Iran’s embassy in London has categorically rejected suggestions that Tehran was involved and condemned what it described as speculation linking Iran to the arrests.

Security increased around base

Security around RAF Fairford had been increased before and after the arrests. The US military has declined to discuss specific security measures but said it continues to assess threats and protect its personnel and facilities.

Trump comments on arrests

US President Donald Trump said the five men had been under observation for some time before their arrest. British police have not publicly confirmed details of any prior surveillance or the specific intelligence that led to the arrests.

Police urge against speculation

Counter-terrorism officers have acknowledged the wider geopolitical questions surrounding the case but said investigators need time to establish the facts. The inquiry remains active as officers examine multiple lines of investigation.

Investigation remains ongoing

The five men will remain under investigation while police continue examining their activities, possible motivations and any wider connections. Authorities have not announced further charges at this stage.