POLICE EVACUATE HOMES NEAR RAF FAIRFORD AFTER EXPLOSIVES ARRESTS

Gloucestershire Police have declared a "major incident" and evacuated homes in Whelford, a village near RAF Fairford, following the arrest of several men on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act. Residents have been taken to a nearby leisure centre while the operation continues, police said. The Army's specialist explosive ordnance disposal team is examining a number of vehicles as part of the investigation. A cordon remains in place around the area, and police said they believe the incident is contained. A large emergency services presence was reported at the scene, including a Hazardous Area Response Team.

RAF Fairford, in Gloucestershire, also hosts the United States Air Force and has been used to deploy US bomber aircraft since a conflict involving Iran began. Security measures at the base have reportedly been increased, with roadblocks and armed police restricting access and emergency vehicles stationed nearby, according to a Reuters report from Sunday. Gloucestershire Police said: "We are working closely with our partners and are enacting the well-rehearsed plans we have in place." The force said the evacuations and arrests are linked to the same investigation. Police have not disclosed how many men were arrested or given further detail on the suspected offences.

A spokesperson for the US Air Force's 501st Combat Support Wing said the force would not discuss specific force protection measures but that its wings "remain vigilant" and would take appropriate action to protect service members, civilians, contractors and their families. The spokesperson said the force "constantly assesses a variety of factors" in deciding what measures to put in place at its installations. Gloucestershire Police said investigations are ongoing. No further details on the men arrested or the nature of the explosives allegedly involved have been released.