Westminster arrest in RAF Fairford terror plot probe
A 25-year-old UK-Iranian national was detained on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts.
Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) arrested a 25-year-old UK-Iranian national in Westminster on Thursday on suspicion of preparation of terrorist acts. The arrest is connected to an ongoing investigation following the discovery of suspicious vans near RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire over the weekend.
Officers have also searched two properties in the Westminster area as part of the inquiry. The investigation is examining multiple lines of inquiry, including the possibility of foreign state involvement, CTP has stated.
Previous Arrests and Findings
Previously, five British nationals, all in their mid-20s, were arrested on suspicion of explosives offences and terrorism in connection with the incident near the military base. These individuals have since been bailed. Counter-terror police confirmed that a quantity of petrol was found in the vans, but no explosive devices were discovered.
Vicki Evans, Senior CTP National Co-ordinator, stated that the investigation is complex and that all angles are being considered. She thanked the public for their support and patience.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has indicated that there are strong suggestions Iran may have played a part in the events near the Gloucestershire military base. The British ambassador to Tehran met with Iran’s foreign ministry on Thursday at the Iranian government’s request. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also claimed that Israel had provided Britain with intelligence regarding the suspected terror plot, warning UK authorities about the "Iranian-sponsored attack".
Next Steps
The 25-year-old arrested in Westminster is currently being questioned by police. The investigation by Counter Terrorism Policing is continuing.
Questions this report answers
01Why was a man arrested in Westminster?
A 25-year-old UK-Iranian national was arrested in Westminster on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts. This arrest is part of an ongoing investigation into suspicious vans found near RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire.
02What was found in the suspicious vans?
Counter-terror police found a quantity of petrol in the vans discovered near RAF Fairford. However, no explosive devices were discovered during the search of the vehicles.
03What has happened to the other people arrested?
Five British nationals, all in their mid-20s, were previously arrested in connection with the incident near RAF Fairford. They were arrested on suspicion of explosives offences and terrorism but have since been bailed.
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