Trump says 5 terror suspects arrested near UK air base planned to do 'big damage'
Five men have been arrested near RAF Fairford in western England on suspicion of explosives offences and preparing a terrorist act, after police received a tip-off about three suspicious vans heading towards the air base.
US President Donald Trump said the suspects had been under investigation by British and American authorities and were allegedly planning to cause serious damage at the facility.
"Working with Britain, it was an amazing job," Trump told reporters. "We had them under investigation. They were looking to do big damage to our fort, and working with the British worked out great and we got them."FIVE MEN ARRESTED
Counterterrorism detectives said police were alerted in the early hours of Sunday after three vehicles were seen apparently travelling towards RAF Fairford. Armed officers arrested five men in the nearby Whelford area.
Police said the investigation was still in its early stages and that the men remained in custody.
"We are in the early stages of an investigation, and five men remain in custody," Counter Terrorism Policing Senior National Coordinator Vicki Evans said.
"As you would expect we are working closely with our partners to understand the circumstances of the incident." A 400-metre cordon was placed around the vehicles while bomb disposal specialists examined them. About 85 nearby households were evacuated as a precaution.
A source familiar with the investigation told Reuters that an Iranian-linked motive was considered the most likely line of inquiry. However, investigators were also examining the possibility of Russian sabotage or an Islamist plot.
The arrests come amid heightened tensions surrounding RAF Fairford, which has been used by US forces for operations against Iran. Iran's Revolutionary Guards had previously warned that bases used to launch attacks could be considered legitimate targets.
Security was also increased at other US-linked British air bases, including RAF Lakenheath and RAF Mildenhall.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham was being briefed on the incident. He thanked police and the armed forces, saying the developments would be concerning for local residents and people across Britain. The US Air Force said its personnel remained vigilant but declined to discuss specific security measures.
"The 501st Combat Support Wing and our fellow UK-based Wings remain vigilant and will take appropriate actions to ensure the safety and security of our US service members, civilians, contractors, and their families," a spokesperson said.
Police have not publicly identified the suspects or confirmed a motive as the investigation continues.- EndsWith inputs from agencies
