The RAF Fairford investigation is continuing after British police arrested five men near the airbase. The suspects have now been released on bail.
Police are examining whether people linked to a foreign state may have been involved in an alleged plot against the base.
The five men are British nationals from London. They are all in their early 20s.
Police detained them early Sunday after a local farmer reported three white vans travelling toward RAF Fairford.
The airbase is used by the United States for military operations. US bombers based there have carried out missions against Iran.
Police Say Investigation Is Ongoing
The men were arrested on suspicion of explosives offences. They were also questioned over the alleged preparation of a terrorist act.
However, police have stressed that their release does not end the investigation.
Laurence Taylor leads Britain’s counter-terrorism police. He said the suspects would be released under strict bail conditions.
He also said officers are examining several possible lines of inquiry.
Police are considering whether individuals may have acted for a foreign state. They are also examining whether such people knew they were working for another country.
Iran Connection Has Not Been Confirmed
A source familiar with the investigation previously said an Iranian-linked motive was being considered.
Other possibilities were also being examined. These included Russian sabotage and an Islamist plot.
However, British police have not publicly blamed Iran or any other country.
Iran’s embassy in London has rejected suggestions that Tehran was involved. It described the claims as unfounded.
Taylor also did not specifically name Iran when discussing the investigation.
Meanwhile, Defence Minister Wes Streeting said Britain was aware of threats linked to Iran and its proxies. However, the investigation into the Fairford incident remains ongoing.
Three Vans Examined by Police
Police have carried out extensive searches of the three white vans.
Military and forensic experts have assisted with the examination. In addition, police resources remain at the scene.
The investigation began after a local farmer contacted emergency services.
She said she saw hooded and masked people running into nearby fields. She also believed her call helped prevent a possible attack.
However, Streeting said the farmer had only seen part of the situation. He did not provide further details about the investigation.
Security Increased Around US Bases
Security has been strengthened at RAF Fairford and other US-linked facilities in Britain.
The US Embassy also issued a security alert. It advised American citizens to remain cautious and pay attention to their personal safety.
Police established a 400-metre cordon around RAF Fairford. Authorities also evacuated residents from 85 homes in nearby Whelford.
The area was later declared safe after an Army explosive ordnance disposal team examined the scene.
Britain Maintains High Terrorism Alert
The incident comes as Britain continues to operate under a severe terrorism threat level.
The level was raised in April after a series of antisemitic incidents in north London. Under the classification, authorities consider a terrorist attack highly likely.
Police have also investigated alleged Iranian links to other incidents involving Jewish community properties and Iranian dissidents.
Iran has repeatedly denied involvement in attacks or plots in Britain.
For now, the RAF Fairford investigation remains active. The five suspects are on bail while police examine evidence and possible foreign-state involvement.
