A British man has been arrested in Cyprus on suspicion of espionage and terrorism-related offences, amid growing concerns over national security threats linked to overseas operations.
Local media reports claim the man had been monitoring RAF Akrotiri, the UK’s key military base in the eastern Mediterranean, which plays a vital role in British operations across the Middle East. Authorities suspect the man may have connections to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
The arrest took place on Friday after intelligence suggested an imminent terrorist threat. The suspect was reportedly living in an apartment in Zakaki, Limassol, a short distance from the RAF facility. He was allegedly seen near the base carrying a camera with a long-range lens and three mobile phones, sparking further suspicion.
Cypriot news outlets initially reported that the man may be of Azerbaijani origin. However, the British Foreign Office has confirmed that he is a UK national and that officials are liaising with Cypriot authorities regarding the arrest.
RAF Akrotiri is considered the most strategically important British airbase in the region. It has been used extensively for Middle East missions, including Operation Shader, which targets Islamic State militants. It was also the launch site for RAF Typhoon jets that intercepted Iranian drones and missiles during attacks on Israel last year.
The arrest highlights heightened concerns around base security, especially following recent incidents at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire. That base, a central hub for British air transport and refuelling missions, including support flights to Akrotiri, was breached by Palestine Action protesters who caused damage to two military aircraft.
RAF Akrotiri also recently welcomed a visit from Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who acknowledged the sensitive nature of operations conducted at the site.
The case is likely to raise fresh questions about espionage threats against British military installations abroad and may prompt reviews of current security protocols at overseas bases.
