A major security operation is underway near RAF Fairford after several men were arrested under the UK’s Explosives Act, triggering evacuations and the deployment of a specialist Army bomb disposal team.
Homes have been evacuated in the nearby village of Whelford, with residents moved to a leisure centre as authorities investigate the incident.
The British Army’s specialist Explosive Ordnance Disposal team is examining a number of vehicles while police have established a cordon around the area.
Gloucestershire Police said the incident is believed to be contained and that emergency services are working with partner agencies as the investigation continues.
The security operation is unfolding next to RAF Fairford, one of the UK’s most strategically important air bases and a key US military facility in Europe.
The base has been used by US strategic bombers including B-52H Stratofortress and B-1B Lancer aircraft. The British government has also authorised the United States to use RAF Fairford for operations against Iranian missile sites during the ongoing conflict.
Armed police have been seen blocking access to the base, while around 30 emergency vehicles were reported in the area.
The arrests and bomb disposal operation come amid heightened security around RAF Fairford, which has become a significant launch point for US strategic bomber operations in the conflict with Iran.
Authorities have not publicly identified what prompted the arrests or said that an explosive device has been found. The investigation remains ongoing.
