Residents near RAF Fairford left 'like sitting ducks'
Residents near RAF Fairford expressed fear and frustration after a counter-terrorism operation led to a midnight evacuation of 85 homes. While no explosives were found, the incident has left the local community feeling vulnerable and uninformed.
Why it matters
It highlights the impact of high-stakes counter-terrorism operations on local civilian populations and the communication gaps between authorities and the public.
Image source, Reuters Image caption, Counter Terrorism Policing have been investigating the incident at RAF Fairford in the early hours of Sunday
Residents living near RAF Fairford say they have been "left feeling like sitting ducks" at the centre of major counter-terrorism probe.
Five men were arrested on suspicion of the preparation of a terrorist act after three vans were spotted near the Gloucestershire base, which the US military operates.
As 85 homes were evacuated in the middle of the night, one couple said their child had been left traumatised after witnessing armed police point a gun at their father. The BBC has approached Counter Terrorism Policing for comment.
However, an anonymous resident from Whelford said she "could not fault" the quick response of UK authorities, describing officers as "calm, thorough and precise".
Also covering this story
10 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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