U.K. police have arrested several individuals under the Explosives Act near a U.S. airbase in southwest England. The arrests occurred near RAF Fairford, utilized by the U.S. Air Force for operations related to the conflict with Iran.
Gloucestershire Police reported evacuations in the Whelford area following the declaration of a major incident. Authorities have detained several men for suspected offenses under the Explosives Act.
Image Caption: Police maintain a roadblock near RAF Fairford after declaring a major incident. Armed officers have cordoned off areas near Whelford. RAF Fairford serves as a facility for the USAF. (Photo Date: Sunday, September 27, 2026) (Photo by Ben Birchall/PA Images via Getty Images)
The Army’s explosive ordnance disposal team is examining vehicles involved. Police have not disclosed the identities or the number of suspects. British Defense Secretary Wes Streeting mentioned on social media that the situation is being managed.
Recently, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) declared RAF Fairford a “legitimate target” following its use by U.S. forces for bombing missions against Iranian military assets. The use of RAF Fairford and Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean for operations against Iranian missile sites has been approved by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
The UK Defense Ministry stated that emergency services quickly detained suspects and implemented safety measures. Investigations are ongoing, and further comments are inappropriate at this time.
Earlier this month, Iran-linked hackers were suspected in a cyberattack on a British power generator, causing shutdowns for several days. Similarly, community water systems in Minnesota faced cyber intrusions affecting pump control technology. U.S. officials have largely suspected Iranian involvement in these incidents.
Federal agencies have identified attempts by Iranian-affiliated groups to infiltrate industrial control systems within water, energy, and government sectors, resulting in operational and financial challenges.
Reporter: Anders Hagstrom from Fox News Digital covers national political events and major breaking news.
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