No explosives found in three vans searched near RAF Fairford, say police

Police have confirmed that no explosive devices were found in three vans searched near RAF Fairford as part of a terrorism investigation, though a quantity of petrol was recovered. Five British nationals were arrested early Sunday morning after a resident reported suspicious activity involving the vans. The men have since been released on police bail and remain under investigation with strict conditions. Counter Terrorism Policing defended this decision, stating it was an investigative choice based on experience and careful consideration. The incident prompted speculation about a connection to Iran, which the country's embassy has denied. US officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have expressed concern over the events and the suspects' release.

Five British men in their 20s were arrested near RAF Fairford in the UK on suspicion of explosives and terrorism offenses after a woman reported her driveway blocked by three white vans. The incident triggered evacuations and a bomb disposal robot examination. Despite US President Trump hailing the arrests and US Secretary of State Rubio suggesting foreign involvement, all five men were subsequently released on bail. Analysts suggest this release indicates a lack of evidence for a major attack, with one former counterterrorism official stating explosives would have led to further detention. An alternative explanation proposed is fuel theft, given rising prices and the presence of heating oil tanks in the area.

British police are holding five men and investigating suspected explosives found near RAF Fairford, a US-operated air force base in England. The arrests occurred early Sunday after three vans were observed near the base. Counterterror detectives are examining whether these arrests prevented an attempted attack potentially linked to Iran. The base has been utilized by American bombers during conflicts in the Middle East. Investigators have not yet determined if the incident is state-backed.

Villagers near RAF Fairford were evacuated early Sunday morning following the discovery of suspicious vans in Whelford. Residents alerted authorities after noticing the vehicles around 1:30 am, leading to a 999 call when the airbase police did not answer. Police later confirmed five men were arrested on suspicion of explosives and terror-related offenses. Approximately 85 households were instructed to evacuate by 6 am, with many taken to a local leisure center. The incident prompted a significant emergency response, including the army, bomb squad, and counter-terrorism police, who were seen examining the vans. The increased security measures at RAF Fairford, which has been used by the US Air Force for operations, were noted by locals in recent weeks.