Suspect in alleged plot against British base called police before arrest, UK media report
Key Points:
- Five men were arrested near RAF Fairford in western England on suspicion of explosive offenses and terrorism, linked to a plot targeting a UK airbase used by the US military; no explosives were found, but petrol was recovered.
- One suspect reportedly called British emergency services nearly an hour before a local resident alerted police about suspicious activity, raising questions about whether the call was a warning or part of the plan.
- The suspects, British nationals aged 23 to 25 from London, were released on bail while investigations continue; police plan to wind down operations at Fairford by Wednesday.
- The incident caused significant security concerns and accusations of foreign involvement, with US officials suggesting links to Iran, which Tehran denies; UK authorities have not confirmed any foreign connection.
- British police responded to multiple triggers, including public reports, and continue to investigate, despite criticism from US President Donald Trump over the suspects' release on bail.