Five men detained near US air base in the UK — Cyprus Mail

Five men were detained in the United Kingdom near RAF Fairford air base on suspicion of preparing a terrorist attack. The operation was carried out after reports of three suspicious vans heading toward the military airfield in western England at night.

Detentions and van checks

As reported by Cyprus Mail, armed law enforcement officers detained five men. The investigation is being led by detectives from the police counter-terrorism unit. According to police, the detainees remain in custody, and the situation is considered contained.

A 400-metre cordon was established around the air base. Explosive ordnance disposal specialists are inspecting the vans, while armed police officers patrol the area. Residents of 85 homes in the surrounding area were evacuated.

More current news is available on the UA.News Telegram channel Telegram.

Enhanced security measures

Gloucestershire Police Assistant Chief Constable Richard Ocone said that emergency services have well-established plans for responding to major incidents. According to him, the cordon was introduced as a precautionary measure, and the presence of emergency services in the area will remain for some time.

The military base was blocked off by armed police officers, while access to it was also restricted by heavy equipment. Reuters witnesses reported increased security at other bases used by the United States: armoured vehicles and military personnel were deployed near the gates of RAF Lakenheath in eastern England.

A US Air Force spokesperson declined to comment on specific protective measures but said that US units in the United Kingdom remain vigilant and will take appropriate steps to ensure the safety of military personnel, civilian staff, contractors and their families.