The five men arrested over the suspected bomb plot near RAF Fairford are all British nationals in their 20s from London, Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) has said. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing The Guardian.

In a statement, the counter terror police said they were detained on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act and preparation of a terrorist act contrary to Section 5 of the Terrorism Act.

Details of the arrested men

According to police, the arrested men are:

  • 01A 24-year-old from Camden, north London;
  • 02Three men aged 23, 24 and 25 from Westminster, central London;
  • 03A 24-year-old from Willesden, north-west London.

The police say the suspects, who were arrested in the village of Whelford on Sunday morning, are being held under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act and a custody extension has been approved until later today. The CTP are still working to establish a motive for the incident.

Statement from police official

Counter Terrorism Policing senior national coordinator, deputy assistant commissioner Vicki Evans, said in a statement:

"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'd also like to thank the emergency services for their response, including the armed officers who first attended the scene, not knowing what they may face.

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."

Investigation continues

Counter Terrorism Policing continues its investigation and is working to establish the motive behind the incident. The suspects are currently in custody and investigative measures are being carried out.

Police representatives are not releasing full details of the investigation, limiting themselves to official statements only. Local residents have been informed about security measures, and police surveillance in the area of the incident has been increased.

This incident has raised concerns about national security issues in the UK, and authorities are closely monitoring the progress of the investigation.