British counter-terrorism police have found no explosives in the investigation into a suspected plot targeting RAF Fairford, a UK airbase used by US forces for strikes against Iran. On Tuesday, September 29, police confirmed that searches had uncovered a quantity of petrol but no improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Five men arrested in connection with the suspected plot remain under investigation after being released on bail.
The investigation has included searches of RAF Fairford and London residences. Police said the decision to release the five suspects was based on investigative factors and did not signal the investigation was over.
RAF Fairford Suspected Plot: Police Confirm No Explosives Found
Counter-terrorism officers have been investigating evidence related to the alleged plot against RAF Fairford. The airbase has been utilised by US soldiers for military operations against Iran, hence it is an important place in the investigation.
During vehicle searches at the site, officers discovered a quantity of petrol. However, police verified that no improvised explosive devices were located as part of their investigation.
The findings provide an update on the inquiry, which began with the arrest of five men on Sunday. Authorities have not provided any additional information regarding the purported scheme or the suspected roles of those arrested.
Police have also conducted searches at multiple houses in London as they investigate relevant evidence in the case. The searches are part of a broader investigation investigating the possible danger to the military airbase.
Five Men Released on Bail as Investigation Continues
The five men arrested on Sunday were released on bail but remain under investigation. Counter-terrorism police emphasised that their release was an investigative decision and should not be interpreted as the matter being closed.
Laurence Taylor, the head of national counter-terrorism policing, addressed the decision, admitting that the move may have startled members of the public. He explained that the decision was made based on experience and thorough analysis of available policing resources.
Taylor stated that the suspects’ release was decided as part of the investigation. His statement emphasised that police judgements during a counter-terrorism investigation can involve multiple factors as detectives try to uncover the truth.
The authorities have not publicised any other arrests or confirmed whether any people are involved. The five males are still under investigation while detectives examine the material acquired during searches and other enquiries.
Police Prepare to Close Investigation Sites Around RAF Fairford
Police have also issued an update on the security and investigation activities surrounding RAF Fairford. Officers said the investigation scenes in the region were being reduced as the investigation advanced.
The sites surrounding the airbase were scheduled to close altogether by Wednesday, September 30. The move comes after counterterrorism officers have conducted searches and gathered evidence since the inquiry began.
Although the physical investigation sites are being decreased, authorities have not stated that the overall investigation has concluded. Property searches in London, as well as the study of collected evidence, are still critical steps in determining what transpired.
Police have confirmed several critical elements, including the recovery of petrol and the absence of discovered explosives. However, authorities have not publicly disclosed any additional information regarding the suspected plot or its intended execution.
The five men are still on bail while the inquiry continues. Police have stated that its publication was based on operational and investigative concerns, as investigators continue to investigate the entire facts surrounding the suspected plot against RAF Fairford.
