Men arrested over RAF Fairford all British nationals from London

All five are still in custody

Author: Jon BurkePublished 28th Sep 2026
Last updated 28th Sep 2026

The five men arrested over RAF Fairford are all British nationals from London, Counter Terrorism Policing said.

Three are 24, from Camden, Westminster and Willesden. The others are 23 and 25, both from Westminster

They are held under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act and a custody extension has been secured, until later today (Monday), police said.

Amid speculation of Iranian involvement, a spokesman said: “At this time, we are working to establish the full circumstances of the activity of those arrested, their knowledge and any motivation behind this incident.”

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans, of Counter Terrorism Policing, said: “This is a hugely complex and large-scale operation, involving local and national policing, the MoD and local agencies, who are working together to progress the investigation and support for the community.

“I know this has been incredibly disruptive for local people, but I’d like to reassure them that our activity is in the interest of national security, but most importantly in the interest of their own safety.

“I am very aware of the levels of speculation about the motivation behind this incident, and the geopolitical questions that are being raised. However, I ask that at this time, Counter Terrorism Policing are given the space to work carefully and clearly.”

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