UK police revealed that petrol was found in the three suspected vans parked near RAF Fairford, but no explosives were detected, leading to the arrest of five suspects on terrorism charges.
On Tuesday, 29 Sep 2026 GMT+7, the UK's Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) disclosed the results of their examination of three suspected vans parked near RAF Fairford, a US-operated airbase in western England. They found some petrol but no explosives.
The case began in the early hours of Sunday when a female farm worker in the village of Whelford reported seeing three suspicious vans near RAF Fairford. This triggered a major incident declaration and evacuation of dozens of nearby households.
Police arrested five British men aged 23 to 25 from London on charges related to explosives law violations, later charging them with attempted terrorism. However, all five were granted bail under strict travel and communication restrictions.
Lawrence Taylor, commander of the CTP, acknowledged public surprise but confirmed the bail decision was based on "strategy, experience, and foremost public safety." He added the bail conditions strictly limit movement and contact with others.
She also said the investigation is ongoing, including probing whether the suspects acted as proxies for foreign states, whether knowingly or unknowingly.
Meanwhile, searches of the five suspects’ homes have been completed, and security perimeters around the base are set to be lifted on Wednesday. Residents have been allowed to return to their homes.
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Source:bbc