On Sunday morning, Gloucestershire Police announced that several men had been arrested on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act in the Whelford area, close to the Royal Air Force Fairford air base in the southwest of England.
The police said a major incident had been declared and that a number of properties were being evacuated. Residents were moved to a nearby recreation centre and a cordon was put in place around the village, which lies about two miles from RAF Fairford.
“We believe this incident is contained,” the police statement read. “We are working closely with our partners and are enacting the well‑rehearsed plans we have in place.”
RAF Fairford hosts United States Air Force personnel and has served as a key hub for American operations against Iran since February, including for heavy bombers such as the B‑1 Lancer and B‑52 Stratofortress.
Gloucestershire Police said the Army’s specialist Explosive Ordnance Disposal team are currently examining a number of vehicles in the area. The team is working to ensure the safety of the surrounding community while the investigation continues.
Local authorities have confirmed that the incident is contained and that all necessary precautions are being taken. The police are cooperating closely with military and emergency services to manage the situation.
<small>Source: Yahoo News — read the original story there.</small>
