Dual UK-Iranian National Arrested in RAF Fairford Investigation
publishers 101articles 187first reported 27 Sep, 08:15 UTCdeveloping since 27 Sep · 5 editionstop 25 #3
British counter-terrorism police have arrested a 27-year-old dual UK-Iranian national in connection with a security incident near RAF Fairford, a U.S.-operated air base in Gloucestershire.
The man was arrested Thursday in Westminster, London, on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts under the Terrorism Act 2006. Police also questioned a 26-year-old British national under caution and searched two properties in Westminster.
The arrest follows the detention of five British men, aged 23 to 25, near the base early Sunday after police received reports of three suspicious vehicles. The five, who are from London, were initially arrested on suspicion of explosives offences and later on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act. They were released Monday under strict bail conditions while the investigation continues.
Police said searches of the vans found petrol but no explosive devices. Vicki Evans, the senior national coordinator for counter-terrorism policing, said investigators were pursuing multiple lines of inquiry and considering all possible explanations, including foreign-state involvement.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham said Wednesday that there were “strong indications” Iran played a role but did not provide details. Iran has strongly denied involvement. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has also alleged that a foreign actor was involved, while President Donald Trump questioned the decision to release the original five suspects on bail.
RAF Fairford has long served as a forward operating location for the U.S. Air Force.
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- This version written
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