Counter Terrorism Police

Five men detained near RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire are to be released on bail, according to the head of UK counter-terrorism policing. The arrests prompted an investigation near the airbase, which is known for hosting US military aircraft. Details about the men or suspected offences have not been made public, and the bail decision suggests police are continuing inquiries without charging them.

Counter Terrorism Police have released five men arrested over the incident at RAF Fairford on bail while the investigation continues. Officers say the suspects remain under investigation and that the activity may have been carried out by proxies for a foreign state, often for financial gain. The foreign-involvement angle has fuelled widespread public speculation about the nature of the incident.

A farmer near RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire raised the alarm after spotting suspicious activity, leading to arrests over an alleged plot targeting the airbase. The report is credited with prompting a rapid police response and preventing a potential attack. The story is drawing wide attention as an example of vigilance by a member of the public playing a key role in counter-terrorism efforts.