Five suspects in RAF Fairford terror plot are UK nationals

Five suspects arrested over a suspected terror plot near RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire are UK nationals from London, all aged in their 20s, Counter Terrorism Policing has confirmed.

The five men remain in custody while counter-terrorism officers investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Police said officers were alerted at about 12.45am on Sunday after three suspicious vehicles were reported travelling towards RAF Fairford. Armed officers stopped the vehicles in the Whelford area and arrested five men.

According to police, the men were initially arrested under the Explosives Act and were subsequently arrested on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act under Section 5 of the Terrorism Act.

A 400-metre cordon was established around the vehicles while specialist explosive ordnance personnel examined them. Around 85 households were evacuated as a precaution.

Counter Terrorism Policing said the investigation remains ongoing and officers are working to establish the full circumstances and motive.

Investigators are examining a possible connection to Iran, but police have not confirmed any Iranian involvement in the suspected plot.

RAF Fairford is used by US military forces and has been involved in operations connected with the conflict in the Middle East.

No charges have been announced against the five suspects.