Counter-terrorism police investigate security breach at RAF Molesworth as two men arrested

Counter-terrorism detectives are now investigating after two men were arrested inside the perimeter of RAF Molesworth in Cambridgeshire, following a security breach at the military base.

The men, aged 36 and 32, are both Latvian nationals living in the UK and have been arrested on suspicion of offences under the National Security Act.

The incident began at around 10pm on Wednesday (7 October), when Ministry of Defence Police officers carrying out security patrols near the base discovered an abandoned vehicle.

Cambridgeshire Police were called to assist, and searches around the site subsequently revealed a small breach in the perimeter fence.

At approximately 2am on Thursday, two men were located inside the base perimeter and arrested.

They were initially detained on suspicion of trespassing on a prohibited site and criminal damage.

However, both have since been further arrested on suspicion of an offence under Section 4 of the National Security Act 2023, relating to entering a prohibited place for a purpose prejudicial to the UK.

The pair remain in police custody.

Counter-terrorism investigation underway

Due to the nature of the incident, the investigation is being led by Counter Terrorism Policing London, working alongside the Ministry of Defence Police and Cambridgeshire Constabulary.

Commander Helen Flanagan, Head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, said investigators were keeping an open mind about the circumstances.

She 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.”

She added that establishing why the men were at the base would be a key part of the investigation, which remains at an early stage.

A1 closed following concerns over abandoned vehicle

The investigation also resulted in temporary road closures around Glatton, including part of the A1.

Police recovered the abandoned vehicle discovered near RAF Molesworth and took it to a nearby police location for examination.

During further searches, concerns about the vehicle prompted the deployment of specialist Explosive Ordnance Disposal officers.

A precautionary cordon was established, affecting local roads while checks were carried out.

However, specialist officers subsequently found nothing of concern, and all cordons have since been lifted.

Searches carried out in Peterborough

Officers are also carrying out searches at two addresses in the Peterborough area in connection with the investigation.

Police have stressed that enquiries are ongoing and have urged members of the public to remain vigilant.

Anyone who notices suspicious activity is encouraged to contact police confidentially on 0800 789 321 or report concerns through www.gov.uk/ACT.