Five Arrested in Terrorism Investigation Near U.S.-Used Air Base in England
Published: September 27th, 2026.
ENGLAND: - Five men have been arrested on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act following an overnight incident near RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, England, a British air base that is also used extensively by the United States Air Force.
Police said they received a report at approximately 12:45 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 27, involving three suspicious vehicles that appeared to be traveling toward the air base.
Armed officers responded to the area and arrested five men in Whelford on suspicion of offenses under the Explosives Act. Authorities said the men were subsequently arrested on suspicion of preparation of a terrorist act under Section 5 of the United Kingdom’s Terrorism Act.
All five remained in custody as of Sunday while the investigation continued.
“We are in the early stages of an investigation, and five men remain in custody,” Counter Terrorism Policing Senior National Coordinator Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans said. “As you would expect we are working closely with our partners to understand the circumstances of the incident.”
Authorities established a 400-meter cordon around the vehicles while the British Army’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit conducted examinations. Approximately 85 households were evacuated as a precaution.
Gloucestershire Police said a nearby leisure center was opened for residents who were evacuated and unable to stay with friends or relatives.
RAF Fairford is a Royal Air Force installation that supports significant U.S. military operations and deployments. The base is used by the U.S. Air Force and has hosted American aircraft and personnel, including strategic bomber deployments.
Police have not said whether the base itself was the intended target of any alleged terrorist activity. The investigation remains in its early stages.
Gloucestershire Police said an emergency services presence was expected to remain in the area for some time and urged the public not to speculate while investigators gathered evidence.
Counter Terrorism Policing is asking anyone with information that could assist investigators to report it through the U.K. government’s ACT counterterrorism service or call the Anti-Terrorist Hotline at 0800 789 321.
Authorities have not announced charges against the five men. The investigation remains ongoing.