Petrol found near RAF Fairford as suspected bomb plot investigation shifts

British counter-terrorism police have said that no explosives were found in vehicles seized after a security alert near RAF Fairford, although officers recovered a quantity of petrol. The Royal Air Force base in southwest England was placed at the centre of a major incident on Sunday after a resident reported several suspicious vans. The alert led to the evacuation of 85 homes in the nearby village and prompted a large police operation.

Laurence Taylor, head of National Counter Terrorism Policing, said the vehicles had undergone extensive examination. He confirmed that no improvised explosive devices were discovered, but said petrol had been recovered. Five London-based men in their mid-20s were arrested on suspicion of explosives offences and later on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act.

They were released on bail on Monday and remain under investigation subject to strict conditions. The decision drew criticism from US President Donald Trump, who said he was surprised and would not have made the same decision. Secretary of State Marco Rubio alleged that a foreign actor might have been involved, according to the source material.

Iran’s embassy in London categorically rejected speculation that Tehran was connected to the incident. Police were called after a farmer in Whelford reported three vans blocking a road and masked men leaving the area. Images showed barrels inside the vehicles, including one bearing a false logo and telephone number suggesting a connection to a legitimate diesel delivery company.

That company said the vehicle and individuals had no connection with it. The base is used by the US military and has hosted aircraft involved in defensive operations into Iran. Police searched properties in London and said they hoped to end investigative operations on Wednesday.

The material says the incident may have been related to fuel theft, but does not establish a motive.