Five men have been arrested on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act and explosive offences after suspicious vehicles were reported near RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire. The arrests occurred following a report of three vehicles travelling towards the base in the early hours of Sunday, prompting counter-terror police to launch a major investigation.

A major incident was declared, leading to the evacuation of dozens of homes in the nearby village of Whelford. Residents have been informed they cannot return home overnight, though officials have stated they believe the situation is contained.

An Army explosive ordnance disposal team was deployed to examine vehicles near the base, which is used by the United States Air Force (USAF). Police have established a 400m cordon around the area, where a hazardous area response team was also present as part of a significant emergency service response.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has been briefed on the developing situation. The incident has also drawn comment from President Donald Trump, who stated the arrested individuals were looking to cause significant damage and that they had been under surveillance. UK Defence Secretary Wes Streeting confirmed contact with his US counterpart.

Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) and Gloucestershire police confirmed the investigation is in its initial stages, with the five men remaining in custody. The BBC understands the operation was not intelligence-led. The men were initially arrested by Gloucestershire police on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act before the further arrest for preparation of a terrorist act.

Gloucestershire Constabulary's temporary Chief Constable Maggie Blyth indicated that police are not currently seeking other individuals, stating her belief that the matter is contained. An image, which the BBC has geolocated and confirmed as appearing authentic, purportedly shows the moment the five men were detained in Whelford, approximately 350 metres from runway access at RAF Fairford.

The RAF Fairford base has a history of collaboration with the American military and has recently served as a staging post for US warplanes conducting strikes in Iran. In response to the incident, the US Department of Defense has raised the threat level at RAF Lakenheath in Suffolk, which houses the USAF's 48th Fighter Wing, to its second-highest category.

A USAF spokesperson stated that personnel remain vigilant but declined to comment on specific force protection measures. The investigation continues as authorities work to understand the full scope and implications of the alleged plot.