Arrests made and bomb squad deployed near RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire

Police in Gloucestershire announced a major incident after arresting several men on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act in the village of Whelford, close to RAF Fairford. A bomb disposal team was dispatched to examine multiple vehicles, and a cordon was established while some local residents were evacuated. The authorities described the situation as contained.

RAF Fairford has been used by U.S. forces for limited strikes related to the conflict with Iran since late February. A U.S. Air Force spokesperson said personnel at the base "remain vigilant" and that security measures are regularly assessed, but declined to provide details for security reasons.

A U.K. government spokesperson thanked emergency services for their swift response and said further comment would be inappropriate while investigations continue. An eyewitness reported increased roadblocks and armed police presence around the base in recent days.