Police probing a suspected bomb plot near RAF Fairford found no explosives but recovered petrol from seized vans. Five London men arrested over the incident were released on bail, prompting surprise from US officials. The scare forced 85 homes to be evacuated and raised questions about whether the episode involved fuel theft rather than terrorism. Investigations, including searches in London, are ongoing.
Petrol, Not Explosives: RAF Fairford Security Scare Ends With Five Bailed
Armed police outside RAF Fairford base in southwest England (Ben STANSALL)
Police investigating a suspected bomb plot near Royal Air Force Fairford in southwest England said Tuesday that no improvised explosive devices were found in seized vehicles, but that a "quantity of petrol" was recovered. The discovery followed the arrest of five London-based men and an evacuation of nearby homes that briefly sparked international attention.
What Happened
Officers were called to the airbase on Sunday after a local farmer in Whelford reported three vans blocking a road and several masked men fleeing the scene. The incident prompted the evacuation of 85 homes in the neighbouring village and the declaration of a "major incident" while armed officers attended.
"Those vehicles have been subject to extensive examination... and we can confirm that no improvised explosive devices were found. However, a quantity of petrol was recovered," said Laurence Taylor, head of National Counter Terrorism Policing.
Arrests, Release and Reaction
Five men in their mid-20s, all from London, were arrested on suspicion of explosives offences and later on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act. They were released on bail on Monday with strict conditions, a decision that drew surprise from US officials.
US President Donald Trump said he was "surprised" by the release, and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested the possibility of a "foreign actor" being involved. British police described the release as an "investigative decision" taken as inquiries continued.
Evidence, Motive and Local Impact
Aerial footage showed the vans appeared to contain barrels, and at least one vehicle carried a fake logo and phone number designed to mimic a legitimate diesel delivery firm. The named company has denied any connection and said it is cooperating with police. Media reports also suggested one member of the group phoned police roughly an hour before the farmer raised the alarm; police have not publicly confirmed that timeline.
With energy prices rising, investigators said the new finding—petrol rather than explosives—gave weight to alternative explanations, including fuel theft. Police have searched addresses in London as part of the ongoing inquiry and said they hoped to stand down some operations on Wednesday.
Context and Local Reaction
RAF Fairford is used by US forces and has been the only mainland UK base used recently for certain US bomber operations. In March, Britain gave permission for the base to be used for specific defensive operations related to Iran, a fact that contributed to media and diplomatic interest in the incident. Iran's embassy in London denied any involvement.
Residents described the episode as alarming and, for some, ultimately embarrassing. "It's a lot of noise for nothing," one local resident said, while others noted concerns about security and the odd timing of the vans arriving at night.
Current Status: The five men remain under investigation and must comply with bail conditions. Police continue inquiries in London and locally while reviewing forensic evidence recovered from the vehicles.
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