A major and dreadful terrorist plot has been foiled near the strategically important Royal Air Force (RAF) Fairford Airbase located in Gloucestershire, Britain. British Counter Terrorism Policing, Gloucestershire Police and security agencies have arrested 5 suspected persons on charges of preparing to carry out a terrorist incident in a joint operation. This airbase is used as a major forward base for strategic bombers and operations of the US Air Force. After the arrest of the suspects, high alert was declared in the entire area and the police termed it as a 'major incident'. According to local reports, three suspicious vans and suspicious youths wearing face masks were seen moving near Welford village, just a short distance from the base. Immediately after being alerted by the villagers, police and bomb disposal squad surrounded the area from all sides. As a precautionary measure, about 85 families of the village were shifted to safer places and suspicious vehicles were searched extensively with the help of bomb disposal robots. British security officials say that a major international attack has been averted due to timely intelligence information. US Embassy issues security alert, instructs citizens to remain alert Immediately after this high-profile arrest, the US Embassy London has issued an official security advisory for all its citizens present in Britain. The embassy has warned that according to the assessment of British officials, the terrorist threat level in the UK remains 'Severe', which simply means that there is a strong possibility of a terrorist attack. The embassy specifically cautioned that American interests, diplomatic establishments, military bases, and events involving American citizens may be at increased risk of being targeted. In the US security advisory, citizens have been advised to adopt strict security measures. These include keeping a close eye on the environment around you, strictly following the instructions of local security forces and emergency services, avoiding going to sensitive crowded areas and constantly staying updated with local media reports. Under the US State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), all migrants have been asked to register their location and security status. Strategic importance of RAF Fairford: links to Iran and Middle East operations The revelation of a terrorist plot at RAF Fairford airbase is not an uncommon occurrence. This airbase is considered an important operational center of the American Global Strike Command and 501st Combat Support Wing. Historically, during the Gulf War and Iraq War, American heavy bomber aircraft like B-52 and B-1 Lancers took off from here. In recent times, the use of Fairford Air Base in defensive operations against targets in the Middle East and Iran supported has increased significantly, due to which it has become the target of international terrorists and proxy groups. Praising the success of this joint operation, the American leadership said that the intelligence agencies of both the countries were keeping an eye on the activities of these suspects for a long time and they were planning to damage major targets. At the same time, the British Prime Minister and the Home Ministry praised the prompt action of the security forces and appealed to the general public to stay away from any kind of rumours. Security arrangements in Europe are tight: What are the guidelines for Indian and foreign travelers? After the terrorist plot was exposed in Britain, security has been tightened outside railway stations, airports and important government and diplomatic complexes in London, Birmingham, Manchester and other major cities. Expatriates from India, America and around the world staying in Britain for study, business or tourism have also been asked to take extra precautions. Security agencies have advised to immediately report any suspicious bag, abandoned vehicle or unusual activity at public places to emergency helpline numbers.
