Major incident declared near RAF Fairford as bomb squad called out and multiple men arrested

A major incident has been declared and villagers have been evacuated from their homes near RAF Fairford following the arrest of several men on suspicion of explosives offences.

Gloucestershire Police said: “A number of properties are currently being evacuated in the Whelford area following the declaration of a major incident.

“It follows the arrest of several men on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act. The Army’s specialist explosive ordnance disposal team are currently examining a number of vehicles.

“The local residents are being evacuated to a nearby leisure centre.

“A cordon is currently in place but we’d like to reassure people that we believe this incident is contained.

“We are working closely with our partners and are enacting the well-rehearsed plans we have in place.”