Sixth Arrest Made in RAF Fairford Terror Probe After UK Cites Iran Link

Counterterrorism police in Britain have arrested a dual British-Iranian national in London on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts, the sixth arrest linked to a suspected plot near RAF Fairford, the Gloucestershire airbase used by US bombers.

According to the Associated Press, the man was arrested in the Westminster area of London on Thursday, with officers searching two properties nearby. Police also questioned a 26-year-old British national under caution, meaning the interview was recorded and could be used in any future prosecution.

The arrest follows Sunday’s detention of five London men in their 20s near the base after reports of three suspicious vans. They were later released on bail. Police say they found a quantity of petrol — an accelerant — in the vans but no explosives, according to Counter Terrorism Policing.

The case escalated on Wednesday when Prime Minister Andy Burnham told the BBC there were “strong indications” Iran played a part in the incident. Iran strongly denied involvement, calling the claims baseless, and summoned the British ambassador in Tehran on Thursday, according to the Australian Associated Press.

Vicki Evans, the senior national coordinator for counterterrorism policing, called the investigation “hugely complex”, saying detectives are examining every angle, including possible foreign-state involvement.

RAF Fairford has been used by US aircraft to strike targets in Iran, and the base was already on high alert following intelligence warnings.

Sources

• Police arrest dual UK-Iranian man in RAF Fairford probe — AAP News
• British-Iranian man arrested on suspicion of terror offenses linked to alleged UK airbase plot — CNN