Counter-terror police arrest dual UK-Iranian national over RAF Fairford incident

Counter-terrorism police have arrested a 27-year-old dual UK-Iranian national in London on suspicion of preparation of terrorist acts over the security incident at RAF Fairford on Sunday, September 27.

Police said the man was detained in central London on Thursday, October 1, and that two properties in the capital were searched. A second man, aged 26 and a UK national, was also questioned under caution, meaning the recorded interview can be used in future prosecutions. (Al Jazeera; AP)

The arrest is the sixth linked to the incident at the US-run base, 160 kilometres west of London. Five men in their 20s, all British nationals from London, were arrested on Sunday on suspicion of explosives and terror offences near the base and have since been released on police bail. Officers found petrol in three vans connected to the men but no explosives. (AP; CNA)

Vicki Evans, senior national coordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing, said the investigation “is hugely complex” and that detectives were “looking at all possible angles — including possible foreign state involvement”.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said there were “strong indications” Iran played a part in the incident. Iran denies any involvement and summoned the British ambassador in Tehran; its foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, accused British authorities of “barking up the wrong tree”. (Al Jazeera; CNA)

The US has used RAF Fairford’s bombers for attacks on Iran, including strikes on Iranian missile sites targeting ships in the Strait of Hormuz, according to Al Jazeera’s reporting.