British police said several men were arrested on Sunday morning on suspicion of offences under the explosives act. Gloucestershire Police declared a major incident and said a number of properties were being evacuated in the Whelford area in southwest England.
Whelford is about two miles from RAF Fairford, which hosts the U.S. Air Force. ABC News reported that since February the base has served as a key hub for U.S. operations against Iran, including for B-1 Lancer and B-52 Stratofortress heavy bombers.
Police said the Army’s specialist explosive ordnance disposal team was examining several vehicles. Residents were moved to a nearby recreation centre and a cordon was put in place.
Police said they believed the incident was contained and were working with partner agencies under established plans. Their statement did not specify the suspected offences or identify those arrested.