The sixth arrest in the probe of a suspected terror plot near RAF Fairford took place in Westminster, where a 27-year-old dual UK-Iranian was detained on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts. Counter Terrorism Policing searched two properties and has also questioned a 26-year-old UK national under caution. Earlier arrests involved five British men who were later bailed; police found petrol but no explosives. Authorities say the investigation is complex and are examining all lines of inquiry, including possible foreign-state involvement after Israel reported passing intelligence to the UK.
Sixth Arrest Made In London Over Suspected Plot Near RAF Fairford As Police Probe Possible Foreign Links
FILE PHOTO - Police at a road block on the road to RAF Fairford after major incident has been declared, with armed police manning a cordon near the village of Whelford in Gloucestershire, near RAF Fairford which is used by the United States Air Force (USAF). (is associated with: «Sixth man arrested in UK in connection with suspected terror plot») Ben Birchall/PA Wire/dpa
A 27-year-old dual UK-Iranian national was arrested in the London borough of Westminster on Thursday, becoming the sixth person detained in connection with a suspected terror plot near the Royal Air Force base at RAF Fairford, Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) said.
Officers also carried out searches at two properties in Westminster as part of the ongoing inquiry. CTP confirmed a separate 26-year-old UK national has been questioned under caution.
Earlier in the week five British nationals, all in their mid-20s, were arrested near the Gloucestershire military site on suspicion of explosives offences and terrorism; those five were later released on bail while enquiries continue.
Investigators and Evidence
Counter-terror teams said a quantity of petrol was found in vans that triggered the security alert near the airbase, but no explosive devices were recovered. Officers described the investigation as complex and said multiple lines of inquiry are being pursued.
Vicki Evans, Senior CTP National Co-ordinator: "The investigation into circumstances surrounding events in Gloucestershire is hugely complex, and our specialist teams are interrogating multiple lines of inquiry. As we've made clear, we're looking at all possible angles - including possible foreign state involvement. I'd like to thank the public for their continued support and patience whilst we work through this investigation."
International Context
The incident has drawn international attention. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel passed intelligence to UK authorities warning of an "Iranian-sponsored attack". At the same time, the UK government has previously authorised the use of some British air bases by US aircraft amid wider tensions in the Middle East.
Former US President Donald Trump criticised the decision to release some suspects. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the UK is working closely with US counterparts and that authorities have the matter under "the strongest grip." Officials have indicated they are examining all possibilities, including potential foreign-state involvement, while the investigation continues.
The CTP and other specialist units remain on the scene as inquiries progress and more information is sought to clarify motives and any external links.
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