Two men re-arrested over the RAF Fairford incident in Gloucestershire can be held without charge until 27 October, after a court granted a warrant of further detention. Counter-terrorism police say the investigation relates to Iran.
What Happened
Counter Terrorism Policing re-arrested the two men on Tuesday 20 October on suspicion of assisting a foreign intelligence service under Section 3 of the National Security Act 2023. The 24-year-old UK national was first arrested near the base on 27 September. The 25-year-old, a dual UK and Iranian national, was arrested in Westminster on 1 October on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts.
Both men are from the London borough of Westminster. On Wednesday 21 October a warrant of further detention was granted at Westminster Magistrates’ Court, allowing police to hold them for up to seven days from their arrest.
Police Maintain Iran Assessment
Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor, head of national Counter Terrorism Policing, said: “This is very much a live investigation, and our evidence gathering continues, but at this time our position remains the same; we consider it highly likely that there is Iranian state involvement.”
He said investigators were still examining the level of that involvement and the ambition behind it. “We know the public have unanswered questions,” he added, promising to share more when it was possible to do so.
Seven men have been arrested in the investigation so far. Five others remain on police bail, including a 22-year-old British national arrested in Westminster on 6 October. No one has been charged.
Background
Police were called at about 12.45am on Sunday 27 September about three suspicious vehicles travelling towards RAF Fairford. Dozens of homes were evacuated, and Army bomb disposal teams examined the vehicles. Police later said no improvised explosive devices had been found, but a quantity of petrol was recovered from the vans.
The five men arrested that day were released on bail on 28 September. US bombers were withdrawn from the base in the following week, and President Donald Trump said this was because of “some threats” to the base. Iran has categorically denied any involvement.
What Happens Next
The two men can be held until 27 October. Police have not said whether charges will follow or whether the men will be released on bail, and investigators are still examining material seized during the inquiry.
This is a developing story and will be updated as police release more information.
