Border Force vessels have been seen conducting what is understood to be migrant interception training on the Solent just off the coast of the Isle of Wight today (Friday).
2 large vessels belonging to the Border Force were sighted off Osborne Bay, with a number of a jet skis also present. A RIB full of people was also spotted in the area, with the jet skis circling the unusually crowded vessel.
In recent weeks Border Force officials have been seen conducting similar training off the coast of Dover. It comes after Home Secretary Priti Patel approved a ‘pushback’ plan that will see migrant boats intercepted and then turned back towards France.
Island Echo understands the vessels departed Portsmouth Naval Base on exercise earlier this afternoon, spending time in the waters between East Cowes and Ryde.
The Home Office has refused to comment on the matter.
