Two Latvian nationals have been arrested after being found inside the perimeter of an RAF base in the early hours of the morning, raising fresh concerns about security at British military sites.
Police confirmed they apprehended the two men at around 2am while they were already inside the base perimeter. Both were arrested on suspicion of trespass.
The incident has sparked immediate questions about how the pair managed to get past security measures at an active RAF installation. Military bases across England have faced growing scrutiny in recent years over perimeter security, particularly following a string of incidents involving unauthorised access at sensitive sites.
The nationality of the suspects has added another layer of interest to the case, coming at a time when security services across the UK have been on heightened alert regarding foreign nationals accessing restricted military areas. Latvia is a NATO member state, though that has done little to quiet concerns being raised in the wake of the arrest.
Authorities have not yet confirmed which RAF base was involved, and no further details about the mens identities have been released at this stage. It also remains unclear whether the pair were armed or in possession of any equipment when they were detained.
Trespass on a military base in England can carry serious legal consequences, and depending on what investigators find during their inquiries, the men could face additional charges. Police are expected to question both individuals as the investigation continues.
The arrest comes amid a broader national conversation about the security of UK defence infrastructure, with MPs and military figures previously calling for tougher measures to protect RAF stations and other sensitive installations from unauthorised access.
Absolutely terrifying that someone can just waltz into an RAF base like that. What on earth are we paying for in terms of security? Heads should roll over this honestly.