British police announced on Thursday that another man has been arrested as part of the investigation into the security incident on Sunday at the US-managed airbase in Gloucestershire.
Details of the Arrest
This man, who holds dual British and Iranian citizenship, was arrested following statements by Andy Burnham, the British Prime Minister, who told the BBC that "there are strong indications that Iran played a role in what happened at RAF Fairford over the weekend."
The Iranian embassy in London had previously stated that it categorically rejects this claim, and Abbas Araqchi, Iran's Foreign Minister, said Burnham is "on the wrong path."
Counter-Terrorism Police Investigation
Counter-terrorism police stated that the 27-year-old man was arrested in London on suspicion of "preparation of terrorist acts under section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006." Another man, who is a British citizen, has also been questioned, and searches have been conducted at two properties.
Vicky Evans, from the counter-terrorism police, said: "The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the Gloucestershire incidents is very complex, and our specialist teams are examining various lines of inquiry." She added: "We have clearly stated that we are exploring all possible angles — including the possibility of foreign government involvement. I thank the public for their support and patience during this investigation."
On Sunday, five men in their twenties, all from the London area and holding British citizenship, were arrested on suspicion of explosives and terrorism-related offenses near RAF Fairford airbase. Police seized three "suspicious" white vans, and about 85 households in the surrounding area were evacuated, with bomb disposal teams dispatched to the scene.
Police reported that quantities of gasoline were found in the vans, but no explosive devices were discovered. The suspects were released after some time, an action that drew criticism from Donald Trump, the President of the United States.
