Farmer's Alert to Suspicious Vans Foiled Alleged Iranian Terror Plot Near UK RAF Base
Details on vehicles, including a fake company name and an unusual phone number format, raised suspicion and led to the arrest of five men.
A potential Iranian-backed terror plot was disrupted near a British airbase frequented by U.S. forces after a farmer noticed suspicious details on three vans, leading to the arrest of five men.
The farmer alerted authorities after observing the vans blocking a road near RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire. She reported that the vehicles displayed a fake company name, 'Fuel 2You,' with a phone number formatted in a way predominantly used in Iran, unlike the standard UK mobile number format. The red lettering used for the company name also contrasted with the green branding of a legitimate fuel delivery company.
When police arrived approximately 15 minutes after the farmer's call, they found the five men inside the vans, which were reportedly packed with explosives. The vans were stopped about 350 yards from RAF Fairford, a base that has been used by American forces for air operations targeting Iran.
The real company, Fuel2U, which operates under the name 'Fuel2You,' has issued a statement to distance itself from the incident. The company expressed concern that its name was used without permission and is cooperating with authorities. They emphasized that neither the vehicle nor any individuals involved have any connection to Fuel2U and urged the public not to threaten their staff.
A cordon was established around the site, and more than 80 households were evacuated. Defence Secretary Wes Streeting commended the farmer for her crucial alert, while U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the alleged plotters were "looking to do big damage" to the base and praised the joint operation with Britain.