Two Latvians Arrested at US Intelligence Base in UK Released on Bail

Two Latvian nationals, aged 36 and 32, have been released on bail after being arrested for trespassing at RAF Molesworth in Cambridgeshire. The men were apprehended at approximately 2 a.m. on Thursday on suspicion of entering a prohibited place for a purpose prejudicial to the United Kingdom.

Ministry of Defence security patrols discovered an abandoned vehicle near the base perimeter around 10 p.m. on Wednesday, followed by the identification of a breach in the fence. Authorities are continuing to investigate the potential motivations behind the men's presence at the location.

RAF Molesworth serves as a significant hub for U.S. military intelligence in Europe and Africa, housing intelligence operations centers for these regions. It also hosts a NATO intelligence hub. The base is also home to U.S. Air Force units from the 423rd Air Base Group.

Counter Terrorism Policing London is leading the investigation. Commander Helen Flanagan stated that while authorities are aware of heightened concern around military sites, there is currently no evidence to suggest this incident is connected to a separate suspected bomb plot at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire last week. Seven men were arrested in relation to the RAF Fairford incident and have also been released on bail.

Investigations into the RAF Molesworth incident include exploring any potential criminal activity. The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police.

Latvia, an EU and NATO member bordering Russia, has seen strained relations with Russia since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. In 2024, the United States Defense Intelligence Agency broke ground on a new $556 million facility at RAF Molesworth, intended to be a comprehensive hub for intelligence personnel.