Police arrested several men on suspicion of explosives offences in Whelford, near RAF Fairford, and declared a major incident. Some residents were evacuated as bomb-disposal officers examined vehicles; police have not confirmed a link to the base.
Police said a number of properties were evacuated and a cordon established; the incident was reported as contained. RAF Fairford has been used by U.S. forces for limited strikes on Iranian missile sites since the U.K. allowed its use after the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran began Feb. 28.
An eyewitness cited by Reuters reported more roadblocks and armed police preventing access to the base in recent days. A U.S. Air Force spokesperson said personnel at RAF Fairford remained vigilant but declined to discuss specific protection measures. The U.K. government said it would be inappropriate to comment further while investigations continue.
