Photo credit: CBS News
British counterterrorism police have arrested five men near a Royal Air Force base used by U.S. bombers after officers received a report about suspicious vehicles traveling toward the site.
Police responded early Sunday to reports involving three vehicles near RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, southwestern England.
The arrests came as authorities investigated suspected offenses under the Explosives Act and possible preparation of a terrorist act.
Five men arrested near RAF Fairford
The Metropolitan Police said officers received a call around 12:45 a.m. local time about three suspicious vehicles traveling toward RAF Fairford.
Armed officers responded to the Whelford area, where police arrested five men.
Authorities initially detained the men on suspicion of offenses under the Explosives Act. Police later arrested them on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act.
Officials have not publicly identified the men or released further details about the allegations.
Police evacuate 85 households
Authorities evacuated 85 households in the area as a precaution.
A bomb disposal team also arrived in Whelford to examine some of the vehicles involved in the investigation.
Police said the measures formed part of the response to the potential threat.
The investigation remains active as counterterrorism officers work to establish what led the vehicles toward the RAF base and whether the suspects had planned an attack.
RAF Fairford hosts U.S. bombers
RAF Fairford is a Royal Air Force station in Gloucestershire that has hosted U.S. military aircraft.
The base has played a role in U.S. bomber deployments and major military exercises.
Its location made the incident particularly significant for local authorities, although police have not disclosed a confirmed motive or target.
Authorities have also not said whether explosives were found in the vehicles.
Investigation continues
The arrests remain part of an ongoing investigation. Being arrested on suspicion of an offense does not establish guilt, and the men have not been convicted.
Counterterrorism officers are expected to continue examining the vehicles and gathering evidence as the investigation develops.
Residents affected by the precautionary evacuation are also awaiting further instructions from authorities.
Police have not announced additional details about possible charges or court proceedings.
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