Police confirm five men arrested over suspected RAF Fairford terror plot are British nationals

Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) has released more information about the five men arrested over the suspected bomb plot at RAF Fairford.

All of the suspects are British nationals from London and are in their 20s.

They were arrested on suspicion of explosive and terrorism offences after armed police stopped three vans travelling towards the based used by the US, in the early hours of Sunday (27 September).

It is understood that counter-terrorism police are investigating if any potential plot could be linked to Iran. CTP said today that multiple lines of inquiry have emerged after investigators worked at the scene overnight.

A villager in the nearby Whelford, Gloucestershire, had called 999 after seeing three vans and a group of masked men near the RAF base. Dozens of homes were then evacuated as bomb disposal teams were called in and a major incident was declared.

A major incident was declared. (David Bown/Getty Images)

The five suspects are currently being held under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (Pace) and officers have been granted an initial extension under later today to hold them in custody.

They are a 24-year-old from Camden, three men ages 23, 24 and 25 from Westminster and a 24-year-old from Willesden. They were initially arrested on suspicion of explosive offences and later terrorism.

CTP Senior National Coordinator, Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans said: “This is a hugely complex and large-scale operation, involving local and national policing, the MoD, and local agencies, who are working together to progress the investigation and support for the community.

“I know this has been incredibly disruptive for local people, but I’d like to reassure them that our activity is in the interest of national security, but most importantly in the interest of their own safety.

“I’d also like to thank the emergency services for their response, including the armed officers who first attended the scene, not knowing what they may face.

“I am very aware of the levels of speculation about the motivation behind this incident, and the geopolitical questions that are being raised. However, I ask that at this time, Counter Terrorism Policing are given the space to work carefully and clearly.”

A police cordon currently remains in place in Whelford and will be reviewed later today.