Five men have been arrested in southwest England on suspicion of offenses related to explosives, in an incident that prompted evacuations and roadblocks near a major air base hosting U.S. forces.

Gloucestershire Police announced Sunday morning that the arrests occurred close to RAF Fairford, a key hub for U.S. Air Force operations in the United Kingdom. The village of Whelford, approximately two miles from the base, is the site of the ongoing investigation, with a number of properties evacuated following the declaration of a major incident.

President Donald Trump commented on the arrests, stating that the suspects had been under surveillance for a significant period and were intending to cause "big damage" to the U.S. Air Force base. He described the operation as a "fantastic" collaboration between U.S. and British authorities. The president did not specify any potential motives behind the alleged plot.

Authorities are currently working to assess a number of vehicles, with the Army's specialist explosive ordnance disposal team on site. The U.S. Embassy in the U.K. has advised American citizens to exercise caution and remain aware of personal security, noting that the U.K. terrorism threat level is rated as severe and U.S.-associated facilities may be at heightened risk.

Assistant Chief Constable Richard Ocone of Gloucestershire Police stated that officers responded to a report of three suspicious vehicles traveling toward the base at 12:45 a.m. The five arrested men remain in custody. Police confirmed they are working closely with counter-terror units on the investigation.

RAF Fairford has been utilized by the U.S. military, particularly amid the ongoing conflict involving Iran, serving as a base for heavy bombers. However, authorities have not yet confirmed any connection between the arrested individuals and Iran.

Roadblocks and security checks have been established around the base. Local residents displaced by the evacuations are being accommodated at a nearby recreation center. Police have indicated that they believe the incident to be contained and are following established emergency plans.

The U.S. military's use of RAF Fairford highlights its strategic importance in the region, particularly in the context of current geopolitical tensions. The investigation is ongoing, and further details regarding the motive and specific nature of the alleged plot are expected as authorities continue their work.