A 25-year-old dual UK-Iranian national has been released on bail as part of an ongoing counter-terrorism investigation into a suspected security plot at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire.
The man was arrested in the London borough of Westminster on Thursday, 1 October 2026, on suspicion of the preparation of terrorist acts under Section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006. Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) confirmed the suspect has now been bailed.
The arrest was the sixth made in connection with a security alert that began near the airbase on 27 September 2026. Five other men, all British nationals in their mid-20s, were detained during the initial stages of the investigation and also remain on police bail.
Incident background and evacuations
The investigation was triggered after police discovered three suspicious vans in the village of Whelford, situated near the perimeter of the military base. The discovery led to the evacuation of 85 households in the area.
While specialist teams confirmed that the vehicles contained quantities of petrol, no improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were found. Residents have since been permitted to return to their homes.
RAF Fairford is frequently used as a forward operating base by the United States Air Force. At the time of the incident, the base was hosting US B-1B Lancer bombers, which are often deployed for operations in the Middle East.
Alleged foreign state involvement
The investigation has taken on a significant geopolitical dimension. Prime Minister Andy Burnham has stated there are “strong indications” that Iran may have played a role in the incident. Counter-terrorism officers have confirmed they are exploring “possible foreign state involvement” as part of their inquiries.
Police originally stated the most recent suspect was 27 years old, but CTP later corrected his age to 25. Authorities have not made public any specific details regarding the requirements of the bail.
Officers continue to appeal for any information that may assist the investigation. Members of the public can contact the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321 or report information online via the official government portal.