Men arrested under Explosives Act as villagers evacuated near RAF Fairford

Villagers have been evacuated from their homes near RAF Fairford following the arrest of several men on suspicion of explosives offences, police said.

A major incident has been declared, with armed police manning a cordon near the village of Whelford in Gloucestershire, near the site of the airbase which is used by the United States Air Force (USAF).

A large emergency services presence was seen in the area, including a Hazardous Area Response Team.

Gloucestershire Police said: “A number of properties are currently being evacuated in the Whelford area following the declaration of a major incident.

“It follows the arrest of several men on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act.

“The Army’s specialist explosive ordnance disposal team are currently examining a number of vehicles.

“The local residents are being evacuated to a nearby leisure centre.

“A cordon is currently in place but we’d like to reassure people that we believe this incident is contained.

“We are working closely with our partners and are enacting the well-rehearsed plans we have in place.”