LONDON, Sept 27 (Reuters) - British police said on Sunday they had arrested several men on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act and the ‌army was examining a number of vehicles after security was stepped up ‌at a British air base used by US air forces in southwest England.

The British government gave authorisation ​to the US to use RAF Fairford to carry out strikes on Iranian missile sites that are attacking ships in the Strait of Hormuz.

A Reuters eyewitness said armed police were blocking access to the main gate of the base. Around 30 emergency vehicles, including ‌police cars, ambulances and fire ⁠engines, were stationed in the village of Fairford near the base.

"A number of properties are currently being evacuated in the Whelford area ⁠following the declaration of a major incident. It follows the arrest of several men on suspicion of offences under the Explosive...