Counter-terrorism police have confirmed that no improvised explosive devices were found in three vans discovered near RAF Fairford, a US military base in Gloucestershire, though a quantity of petrol was recovered. Five British men, aged between 23 and 25, were detained on suspicion of terrorism offences after the vehicles were found acting suspiciously near the base on Sunday morning, prompting the evacuation of approximately 85 households. The decision to release all five suspects on bail within 36 hours drew considerable criticism and concern, including from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who suggested foreign involvement in the alleged plot.

The five suspects include a 24-year-old from Camden in north London and three men from Westminster in central London, aged 23, 24, and 25 respectively. RAF Fairford has been used by the US military to conduct operations against Iran, and potential Iranian involvement has been identified as one line of inquiry for British investigators, though Tehran has categorically denied any involvement. Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor emphasised that the decision to grant bail was an investigative one made with public safety at the forefront, following extensive examinations of the vehicles using military assets and forensic experts. Residents were allowed to return to their homes on Monday, and police cordons are expected to be completely lifted by Wednesday.