A British-Iranian dual national has been arrested in London as part of the counter-terrorism investigation into last weekend’s major incident near RAF Fairford — bringing the total number of arrests to six. The development follows Prime Minister Andy Burnham confirming “strong indications” that Iran played a part in the suspected plot.
Sixth arrest in Westminster
Counter Terrorism Policing confirmed on Thursday 1 October that a 25-year-old man, described as a dual UK/Iranian national, was arrested in the Borough of Westminster, London, on suspicion of preparation of terrorist acts under Section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006. Two properties in the area were also searched as part of the ongoing investigation. The suspect has not been named, in line with standard police practice ahead of any charges being made.
The five men originally arrested near RAF Fairford on Sunday 27 September remain on police bail subject to stringent conditions on their movement and contact with others. Counter Terrorism Policing also confirmed that a 26-year-old UK national has been questioned under caution in connection with the investigation.
PM points to Iran; Israel says it gave warning
On Wednesday, Prime Minister Andy Burnham told the BBC there were “strong indications that Iran played a part in what happened over the weekend at RAF Fairford.” He said he would not have made the assessment lightly and pledged to “update people more in due course.” Iran’s government lodged a protest following his remarks.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that Israel had passed intelligence to the UK warning of an impending Iran-sponsored operation at the base before the incident took place. Mossad is widely believed to have intelligence sources inside the Tehran regime.
Complex investigation continues
Senior National Coordinator for Counterterrorism Policing, Vicki Evans, said: “The investigation into circumstances surrounding events in Gloucestershire is hugely complex, and our specialist teams are interrogating multiple lines of enquiry. As we’ve made clear, we’re looking at all possible angles — including possible foreign state involvement.”
RAF Fairford, located near Cirencester in the Cotswolds, has been used by US military bombers in recent months following former Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s decision to grant the US permission to use British bases for operations against Iran. Investigators are examining multiple theories, including whether those arrested were acting as Iranian proxies.
Sources: Counter Terrorism Policing official statement (1 October 2026), BBC News, Al Jazeera, The National News, RTÉ News.
This follows our earlier report: Major incident declared near RAF Fairford as police cordon off airbase and arrest several men.
