By September 27, 2026 / 5:29 AM EDT / CBS/AP
Several men have been detained in southwestern England on suspicion of crimes involving explosives. The arrests took place near a village by an air base utilized by U.S. forces, as reported by local police on Sunday.
Authorities in Gloucestershire announced a major incident had been declared. A number of properties in Whelford were evacuated following the apprehension of these men under the country’s explosives act. This act pertains to laws regulating explosives. Police Actions
Police mentioned a bomb disposal team was deployed to examine multiple vehicles due to potential threats. A cordon was established around the area, and some residents were evacuated as a precautionary measure. Officials assured the community that the situation is now contained.
Involvement of RAF Fairford
Whelford is situated near RAF Fairford, an air base used by American forces for limited operations amid the ongoing conflict with Iran. Since the onset of the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran on February 28, the U.K. government granted permission for American forces to utilize the Fairford base to target Iranian missile sites.
Despite this proximity, police did not confirm any links between the recent arrests and the air base activities to the Associated Press.
Enhanced Security Measures
In recent days, security measures have been heightened at the air base. Eyewitnesses informed Reuters about an increase in roadblocks and armed police controlling access to the site.
This developing story will be updated as more information becomes available.
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