Homes Evacuated, Men Arrested Near RAF Fairford

On Sunday morning, 27 September 2026, Gloucestershire Police declared a major incident near RAF Fairford after several men were arrested on suspicion of Explosives Act offences. Whelford residents were moved to a leisure centre. "A number of properties are currently being evacuated following the declaration of a major incident. It follows the arrest of several men on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act," police said. An Army explosive ordnance disposal team examined vehicles. About 30 emergency vehicles attended. An eyewitness saw armed police at the base main gate. Police said they were "enacting the well-rehearsed plans we have in place" and believed the situation contained. RAF Fairford hosts US Air Force units, including bombers used since 28 February against Iranian missile sites targeting Hormuz shipping. The 501st Combat Support Wing said it is monitoring the situation and will take appropriate protective measures. On Saturday Trump rejected an Iranian plan to reopen the Strait within seven days and threatened further bombing. Whether the arrests connect to the base's US role, and what prompted the operation, are not addressed by any source.