Police in Gloucestershire declared a major incident and evacuated local residents on Sunday, September 27, 2026, following the arrest of several men near RAF Fairford, a military airbase in southwestern England used by United States forces. The arrests were made on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act, prompting a significant security response around the facility and nearby communities.
Authorities set up a security cordon around the village of Whelford, located close to the base. Residents from several properties were moved to a nearby leisure center for safe shelter while emergency crews and military personnel managed the scene.
Bomb Squad Inspects Vehicles Near Base
A specialist explosive ordnance disposal team from the British Army was brought in to inspect multiple vehicles at the location. Around 30 emergency vehicles, including police cars, fire engines, and ambulances, gathered in the neighboring town of Fairford as officers secured the area.
Armed police officers blocked access to the main gate of RAF Fairford, where security equipment was placed across entry points. Gloucestershire Police issued a statement to reassure the public, saying they believed the situation was contained.
Investigation and Base Security Response
Officials have not confirmed whether explosive materials were recovered during the arrests, nor have they stated if the men were specifically targeting the military airbase. Authorities also noted that there is no confirmed link between the incident and foreign state actors.
Key details surrounding the operation include:
- Location: Village of Whelford, near RAF Fairford, Gloucestershire, England
- Date of Incident: Sunday, September 27, 2026
- Legal Grounds: Arrests made under the Explosives Act
- Precautionary Measures: Residential evacuations to a local leisure center and vehicle searches by military explosive specialists
The US Air Force acknowledged reports of the arrests but declined to detail specific operational security steps. A spokesperson noted that the 501st Combat Support Wing, along with other US Air Force units stationed across the United Kingdom, remains vigilant to safeguard personnel and their families.
RAF Fairford frequently serves as a strategic hub for heavy bomber operations, including deployments of US Air Force B-1B Lancer aircraft. Police operations around the site remain ongoing as investigators work to determine the circumstances behind the alleged offences.
