One of the five men arrested near RAF Fairford reportedly called police shortly before officers detained the group, adding a new detail to an investigation into suspicious activity close to the Gloucestershire airbase.
The men, all British nationals in their 20s and from London, were arrested in Whelford early on Sept. 27 after three vans were reported travelling towards the base. They were suspected of explosives offences and preparing a terrorist act. Police later released all five on bail while enquiries continued.
What is known about the call
The Times reported that one suspect contacted police shortly before the arrests. The reported call is one element investigators may examine as they establish why the men and vehicles were near the base and what the group intended.
Counter-terrorism police said they were working to determine the full circumstances, the suspects’ knowledge and any motive. Authorities have described the inquiry as complex, and no charges or conclusions about responsibility had been announced when the men were released.
Iran link remains under investigation
RAF Fairford is a UK-owned base used by US forces. British Prime Minister Andy Burnham said on Sept. 30 that there were strong indications Iran played a part in the incident. That assessment is not a final investigative finding. Iranian officials have denied involvement, and police have said their work is ongoing.
The suspects’ release on bail does not resolve the case. Investigators continue to assess the evidence and whether any foreign actor or other motive was involved.
