RAF Fairford: Five Men Arrested, 85 Households Advised to Evacuate

Five men have been arrested near RAF Fairford and 85 households advised to evacuate, according to a police update reported by CGTN America on Sunday, September 27.

All five men remain in custody. Gloucestershire Police said they were working closely with counter-terrorism officers to establish the full nature of the incident near the airbase in southwest England.

Counter-terrorism officers involved in investigation

The arrests were made on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act following a major incident in nearby Whelford.

The latest figures provide a clearer picture of the operation, after police initially announced several arrests and the evacuation of an unspecified number of properties.

Residents affected by the evacuation were directed to a nearby leisure centre. Police previously said they believed the incident was contained.

Army bomb disposal team examines vehicles

Army explosive ordnance disposal specialists have been examining vehicles at the scene. The Associated Press reported that aerial footage appeared to show a bomb disposal robot moving between three white vehicles.

Police have not publicly confirmed what, if any, explosives were found or identified a motive or intended target.

RAF Fairford hosts U.S. Air Force personnel and bombers. Authorities have not confirmed whether the suspected offences were directed against the base.

Background verification: Gloucestershire Police and Associated Press reporting; the new figures come from the CGTN America update in your screenshot.