"Important incident" around the base used by America for ground attacks on Iran; British police arrested several people
British police arrested several people on Sunday, October 5, on suspicion of committing explosives-related crimes near an air base used by the United States to launch ground attacks on targets in Iran.
Reuters reported that simultaneously, British military bomb disposal experts inspected cars and several homes were evacuated following reports of a "major incident".
The British government, which allowed the United States to use the Royal Air Force base "Fairford" for ground attacks on Iranian missiles used against ships in the Strait of Hormuz, announced that Prime Minister Andy Burnham was updated on the latest developments in this incident.
The Revolutionary Guards warned in early July that any base used for ground attacks on Iran would be a "legitimate target." An eyewitness told Reuters that armed police blocked access to the main gate of the base and equipment and machinery were deployed in front of the base entrances.
Residents of the village near the base woke up early in the morning and were asked to leave their homes.
About 30 emergency vehicles, including police cars, ambulances, and fire trucks, were stationed in the village of Fairford near the base, and a helicopter also flew over the area.
Several British media outlets, including the BBC and Sky News, reported that counter-terrorism forces have taken over the investigation of this incident near the Fairford air base.
Gloucestershire Police announced in a statement: "Following the declaration of a major incident, a number of properties in the Woolford area are currently being evacuated. This action was taken after several people were arrested on suspicion of committing crimes under the Explosives Act." The police added: "The army's specialized team is investigating a number of cars to neutralize ammunition and explosives."
Police announced that the situation is now under control.
Read the full report on the Radio Farda website.