By GB News (World News) | Created at 2026-09-28 16:30:46 | Updated at 2026-09-29 21:01:04
1 day ago
The five suspects arrested in connection with a suspected terror plot at RAF Fairford have been released on bail, Counterterror police have revealed in an update on the case.
Laurence Taylor, Head of National Counter Terrorism Policing, insisted that the men “remain under investigation” and have been placed under stringent release conditions.
On Sunday, five men were arrested on suspicion of terrorism and explosives offences after three suspicious vans were found close to the Gloucestershire facility.
Police later announced that the suspects were all British male nationals in their 20s from London.
“I can confirm that following extensive interviews and enquiries, the five men who were arrested are being released on police bail this afternoon,” Mr Taylor explained.
“To be very clear, this does not mean the investigation is over. They are subject to stringent conditions on their movement and contact with others. They absolutely remain under investigation as we explore multiple lines of enquiry.”
The counter-terror chief also addresses concerns that the foiled bombing may have been linked to Iran, which the Islamic Republic has stringently denied.
RAF Fairford is also an important base for the US Air Force, which was integral to Washington's war with Iran.
Counter-terror police have shared an update on the RAF Fairford bomb plot
PA
“I know there is significant interest in whether the current geopolitical context has a bearing on this incident,” Mr Taylor said.
“At Counter Terrorism Policing, we are working within this context every day, and at this stage we are keeping an open mind in this investigation.
“We have, as you would expect, ensured that our protective security advice and posture remain commensurate with the threat.
“But be assured, we are considering this from every possible angle,” he said, adding “this may be activity committed by proxies, or individuals either knowingly or unknowingly, working on behalf of a foreign state”.
The counter-terror chief revealed that five suspects in the incident have now been released on bail
“I am also very conscious that there is a great deal of speculation about what may or may not have been known previously about potential threats or activity,” the counter-terror chief continued.
“As I hope the public understands, I will not always be able to share this type of information. What I do ask is that the public understand that we work hand in glove with MI5 to keep them safe from a myriad of threats and do everything we can to protect them.
“Incidents such as this are a reminder of the importance of public vigilance; if you spot something that doesn't feel right, let us know.”
Discussing the incident itself, Mr Taylor explained that police “still have significant resources deployed at the scene. A cordon remains in place whilst investigators continue their work.
Iran has 'categorically rejected' responsibility for the plot, which appeared to target the base used by the US Air Force
However, we are hopeful to reduce this later today and get residents back to their homes. We will provide further updates on this in due course.
“I know that for the people who call this area and RAF Fairford home, this has been a hugely disruptive incident. Thank you for your support and patience,” he said.
Just before the police update, Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced that he would lead an urgent Cobra meeting over the incident.
