British counter-terrorism police have arrested a dual UK-Iranian national as part of an investigation into a suspected plot linked to RAF Fairford, an air base used by the United States in operations against Iran.
Police said on Thursday that the 27-year-old man was detained in London on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts. A second British man, aged 26, was also questioned under caution.
The arrests are part of a widening investigation into an incident near RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire that prompted a major police operation and raised concerns among Britain’s Western allies.
Five British men in their 20s were arrested near the base on Sunday on suspicion of terrorism and explosives offences. They were later released without charge on police bail while inquiries continued.
Counter-terrorism officers have said they are examining whether a foreign state may have been involved in the incident. Prime Minister Andy Burnham said on Wednesday that possible Iranian involvement was among the lines of inquiry being considered.
“The investigation into circumstances surrounding events in Gloucestershire is hugely complex, and our specialist teams are interrogating multiple lines of enquiry,” Vicki Evans, Britain’s Senior National Coordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing, said.
Evans said investigators were examining “all possible angles”, including the possibility of foreign state involvement.
RAF Fairford in western England has been used by US forces in connection with military operations targeting Iran, adding to the sensitivity surrounding the investigation.
Police have not disclosed further details about the suspected plot or what allegedly occurred near the base.
