Dual UK-Iranian national arrested in RAF Fairford investigation

British counter-terrorism police arrested a 27-year-old dual UK-Iranian national in London on Thursday as part of their investigation into a security incident near RAF Fairford, a British airbase used by the U.S. Air Force.

The man was detained in Westminster on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts under Section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006. Police also questioned a 26-year-old UK national under caution and searched two properties in Westminster.

Five British men aged 23 to 25 were arrested near the Gloucestershire base early Sunday after police received reports of three suspicious vehicles. They were initially held on suspicion of explosives offences and later on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act. Police found petrol but no explosive devices in searches of the vans. All five remain on bail under what police described as an investigative decision.

Vicki Evans, the senior national coordinator for counter-terrorism policing, said investigators were examining multiple lines of inquiry, including possible foreign-state involvement.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said Wednesday that there were “strong indications” Iran had played a role, but did not provide details. Iran has denied involvement. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Burnham was “barking up the wrong tree,” while Iran’s embassy in London said it categorically rejected the allegations.

RAF Fairford has served for decades as a forward operating location for the U.S. Air Force. U.S. bombers have recently used the base for operations in the Middle East after Britain approved its use for defensive strikes on Iran.