A UK-Iranian dual national has been arrested on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts, intensifying the complex RAF Fairford terror investigation. The 25-year-old man was apprehended in Westminster, London. Authorities also searched two properties in the immediate vicinity.
This new development follows an incident at the Gloucestershire airbase. Five other men, all UK nationals in their twenties, were previously arrested near the site. They currently remain on police bail.
Counter-terror police are exploring numerous lines of inquiry. This includes considering all potential angles, even foreign state involvement, according to Vicki Evans, the force’s senior national coordinator. She highlighted the immense complexity of the investigation into events surrounding the base.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated there are “strong indications” of Iranian involvement. This assertion was made on Wednesday. However, Tehran has vehemently denied any role in the incident.
The US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, previously commented on the situation. He suggested the clear involvement of a “foreign actor.” RAF Fairford has served for decades as a forward operating location for the US Air Force (USAF).
The initial security alert occurred in the early hours of Sunday. Three suspicious vehicles were reported traveling towards the base. One of the arrested men reportedly called emergency services himself, about an hour before a local farmer reported a “large group” of masked men near the vehicles.
Police initially arrested the five men on suspicion of explosives offences. They were later held on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act. The decision to release them on bail was described as an “investigative decision,” grounded in experience and strategy.
Searches of vans near the site uncovered a quantity of petrol. Crucially, no explosive devices were found. The previously arrested group ranged in age from 23 to 25. Four resided in Westminster, with one living in Camden; their homes were also searched.
Recent months have seen US bombers deploy from RAF Fairford to the Middle East. This followed UK approval for US use of the base for what were termed defensive strikes on Iran. Therefore, the ongoing RAF Fairford terror investigation carries significant international implications.
