Counter-terrorism police have re-arrested two men in London on suspicion of assisting Iranian intelligence following an investigation into activity at RAF Fairford.

UK counter-terrorism police have re-arrested two men from central London on suspicion of assisting a foreign intelligence service in violation of the 2023 National Security Act. The arrests are part of an ongoing investigation into incidents at the RAF Fairford airbase that occurred in September. Authorities stated it is highly likely there was Iranian state involvement in the activity at the base.

Details of the Investigation

The two individuals detained are a 24-year-old British national and a 25-year-old British-Iranian dual national, both residing in Westminster. They were previously arrested on suspicion of terrorism offences and released on police bail before being re-arrested under section 3 of the National Security Act, which covers conduct intended to materially assist a foreign intelligence service. Five other men previously arrested in connection with the case remain on police bail.

Context at RAF Fairford

The investigation follows the arrest of five men outside the RAF Fairford airbase in southwest England during the early hours of September 27. Following these arrests, US B-1 bombers stationed at the base were withdrawn. Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor, head of National Counter Terrorism Policing, noted that the investigation remains active and evidence gathering is ongoing. While British Prime Minister Andy Burnham previously stated the activity was likely coordinated in Iran, the Iranian ambassador to Britain has denied these claims.