Two Latvian nationals have been arrested on suspicion of trespass offences at an RAF base in Cambridgeshire.
Ministry of Defence Police (MDP) found an abandoned vehicle while carrying out security patrols near RAF Molesworth at 10pm on Wednesday.
A small breach of the base’s fence was found following a further search by the MDP and the Cambridgeshire Constabulary.
Two men, aged 36 and 32, were arrested inside the base perimeter. Both are Latvian nationals who are UK residents, Counter Terrorism Policing London said.
They were initially taken into custody on suspicion of trespass on a prohibited site and criminal damage.
The pair have since been further arrested on suspicion of an offence under section 4 of the National Security Act 2023 – namely entering a prohibited place for a purpose prejudicial to the UK.
Both men remain in custody as CTP launch a probe into the matter. They are working closely with the MDP and Cambridgeshire Constabulary amid the investigation.
Police also recovered the abandoned vehicle, which was taken to a nearby location, where further searches led to the deployment of specialist ‘EOD’ officers.
As a precaution, a cordon was placed on impacted roads in the Glatton area, including part of the A1.
Nothing of concern was found during the additional checks and the cordons have since been lifted.
A military intelligence analysis centre, the Joint Intelligence Operations Centre Europe (JIOCEUR) Analytic Centre, is located at RAF Molesworth.
The Cambridgeshire military base is also home to several units from the United State Air Force’s 423rd Air Base Group.
Commander Helen Flanagan, Head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, which is leading the investigation, said: ‘We’re very aware of the recent heightened interest and concern around military sites, but at this stage there is nothing to suggest this incident is connected to the events at RAF Fairford last week.
‘Our investigation into this incident is at its very early stages. A big part of this is looking at any potential motivation as to why the men were present at the site, but I must stress we are keeping an open mind at this stage and enquiries are very much ongoing.
‘As ever, I would ask the public to remain vigilant and if you see anything of concern, then to contact police.’
Anyone who sees anything that does not look or feel right has been urged to contact the police by calling 0800 789321 or report it online.
This is a breaking news story. Updates to follow.
