Five Arrested Near US-Used UK Air Base as Trump Says Suspects Sought to Cause ‘Big Damage’

By Angel No Lie | KPD Online | 28 September 2026

Five men have been arrested near RAF Fairford, a military base in Gloucestershire used by the United States Air Force, after police received a report about three suspicious vehicles travelling towards the facility.

The arrests took place in the early hours of Sunday, September 27, after a member of the public contacted police at about 12:45 a.m. Armed officers subsequently detained the five men in the nearby Whelford area. British counter-terrorism police are now leading the investigation.

US President Donald Trump said the suspects had been under investigation and claimed they were seeking to cause “big damage” to the US facility. Trump also praised cooperation between American and British authorities.

However, British authorities have not publicly confirmed Trump’s characterization of the suspects’ intentions. Police said the investigation remains in its early stages and urged the public not to speculate while evidence is being examined.

Five men remain in custody

The men were initially arrested on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act and were later also arrested on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act under Section 5 of the Terrorism Act.

Police established a 400-metre cordon around the vehicles while the Army’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit examined them. About 85 households in the surrounding area were evacuated as a precaution, with residents directed to a nearby leisure centre.

Authorities said the incident was contained, while emergency services remained in the area as investigations continued.

RAF Fairford’s US military role

RAF Fairford is a long-standing military installation used by the US Air Force and is capable of accommodating large military aircraft. The base has also been used in connection with US military operations involving Iran, making it a significant security site amid the ongoing regional conflict.

The arrests have prompted increased attention because of the base’s role in supporting US military operations. Police, however, have not publicly established a motive for the suspected plot or confirmed any involvement by a foreign government or organisation.

Investigation continues

Counter-terrorism officers are working with Gloucestershire Police and other agencies to establish why the three vehicles were travelling towards the base and what materials, if any, were being carried.

Police have asked residents and the wider public to rely on official updates and avoid speculation while forensic and explosive examinations continue.

Reporting note: Trump’s statement about the suspects intending to cause “big damage” is presented as his claim; UK police have confirmed the arrests and terrorism investigation but have not publicly established the suspects’ motive.