Several men have been arrested over suspected explosives offences near RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, prompting the evacuation of a number of properties and the declaration of a major incident.
Gloucestershire Police said the arrests were made in the Whelford area under legislation covering explosives. A cordon was put in place and the incident was described as contained.
Residents were evacuated while a bomb disposal team examined a number of vehicles at the scene.
RAF Fairford, close to Whelford, is used by US forces. The base has been used for limited strikes during the war with Iran, after the UK Government allowed the American military to launch attacks on Iranian missile sites following the start of the US-Israeli war on February 28.
Police have not confirmed whether the arrests over explosives offences were connected to RAF Fairford.
Security around the air base has reportedly been increased in recent days, with more roadblocks and armed officers restricting access, according to an eyewitness.
