British Counter-Terrorism Police Arrest Dual UK-Iranian National Over RAF Fairford Security Incident

British counter-terrorism police have arrested a 27-year-old dual UK-Iranian national in central London in connection with a major security incident at the RAF Fairford airbase in southwest England over the weekend.

The suspect was detained on suspicion of the preparation of terrorist acts, according to a police statement released on Thursday. Additionally, a 26-year-old British national was questioned under caution as part of the ongoing investigation.

The incident occurred near RAF Fairford, located 160km west of London, which has historically been utilized by US bombers during conflicts in the Middle East, including the recent conflict involving the US and Israel against Iran that began in February.

Earlier on Sunday, five men in their 20s from London were initially arrested on suspicion of terrorism and explosives offences following the event at the airbase. Those five individuals have since been released on bail.

Vicki Evans, the senior national coordinator for counter-terrorism policing for the Metropolitan Police, described the investigation in Gloucestershire as hugely complex, noting that specialist teams are exploring all possible angles, including potential foreign state involvement.

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham previously stated there were strong indications of Iranian involvement in the incident. In response, Iran strongly denied any connection, with Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi rejecting the allegations made by Burnham.