Properties evacuated near UK air base hosting US Air Force after explosives-related arrests

A major incident was declared Sunday in a village near a US air base in western England, with residents evacuated from several properties after police arrested several men on suspicion of offenses under the Explosives Act.

Gloucestershire Police said on Sunday the evacuations were taking place in Whelford, near RAF Fairford, a Royal Air Force base that hosts United States Air Force operations.

Residents were taken to a leisure center while emergency services investigated the incident.

“The Army's specialist explosive ordnance disposal team is currently examining a number of vehicles,” police said.

A cordon has been established around the area, and police said they believe the incident is contained.

A large emergency services presence was reported in the area, including a Hazardous Area Response Team, which provides specialist medical support for incidents involving hazardous materials and other complex emergencies, according to a report by BBC.

Gloucestershire Police said: “A number of properties are currently being evacuated in the Whelford area following the declaration of a major incident.

“It follows the arrest of several men on suspicion of offenses under the Explosives Act.”

The force said investigations remain ongoing and urged members of the public to avoid the affected area while emergency services continue their work.