Security Alert Near U.S.-Used Air Base in Britain: Suspects Arrested With Explosives

A "serious incident" was declared Sunday in southwest England following police activity near RAF Fairford, where U.S. forces are stationed and U.S. Air Force bombers are hosted. Several men were arrested on suspicion of offenses under explosives laws, and buildings in the area were evacuated.

Gloucestershire Police said the incident is centered around the village of Welford, near RAF Fairford. Residents were evacuated from their homes and taken to a sports and recreation center, while a military explosives-disposal team was called to the scene and is examining several vehicles.

The Daily Mail reported that a "Delta" alert, the highest level in the U.S. military, was declared at the base, and bomb-disposal experts are checking the vehicles over concerns that one may contain explosives. Alert levels were also raised at the U.S. base in Lakenheath, Suffolk, to one level below that.

The incident comes after reports in recent days of a significant increase in security measures around the base. Reuters reported yesterday that roadblocks had been set up in the area, armed police officers were preventing access to the site, and emergency vehicles were seen nearby.

A U.S. Air Force spokesperson said the forces were "aware of the reports," but did not specify what security measures had been taken. According to the spokesperson, the 501st Combat Support Wing and U.S. units stationed in Britain are on alert and will take appropriate steps to protect military personnel, civilians, contractors, and their family members. The Air Force added that protective measures at its bases are reviewed regularly in accordance with a range of factors.

Fairford serves the U.S. Air Force and is home to the headquarters of the 501st Combat Support Wing and the 420th Air Base Squadron. According to the unit's website, it is the preferred European location for forward bomber operations by Global Strike Command, supporting missions and exercises throughout the year.

In July, Britain said its forces were prepared to defend the country against any attack, after Iran's Revolutionary Guards warned against allowing U.S. bombers to take off from Fairford. The base was used during the war to launch attacks and operations against Iran. However, authorities have not confirmed any connection between the base's security background and the current incident, and the investigation into suspected explosives-related offenses is continuing.