Bembridge and Yarmouth RNLI lifeboats have been deployed as another illegal migrant boat makes its way across the English Channel, marking the third crossing towards the Isle of Wight coast since the beginning of September.
The small boat departed from Cherbourg in Normandy and has made its way across the Channel escorted by the French vessel Abeille Liberté, with Island lifeboats once again being tasked to the rescue operation.
The deployment of the Isle of Wight lifeboats comes as preparations have already been stepped up on the mainland, with Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary confirming a significant police presence has been established in Gosport.
Riot police officers and coaches are understood to be waiting ashore in the Hampshire town, with the force now confirming those onboard the migrant vessel will be brought to shore in Gosport.
In a statement issued this afternoon (Sunday), the force said it is working alongside partner agencies to support the response to the incident, while also facilitating peaceful protest.
Police have acknowledged that a group of people have gathered in Gosport and confirmed that a range of police powers have been introduced to maintain public safety.
Under Section 14 of the Public Order Act 1986, those wishing to gather have been directed to a designated area within Walpole car park. The order remains in place until 16:00 tomorrow as well as the prohibition of wearing face coverings to conceal identity during protest activity.
Today’s crossing marks the third since the beginning of September, with the route from Normandy to the south coast seemingly becoming an increasingly regular occurrence.
As first reported by Island Echo, the first crossing, on 6th September, saw more than 150 migrants brought ashore at Eastney Beach in Portsmouth following the deployment of RNLI crews from Bembridge and Yarmouth, who intercepted the mega dinghy halfway between the Island and Cherbourg.
A second crossing followed on 22nd September, involving a further boat carrying approximately 50 people, which again made the journey from the French coast under the escort of the Abeille Liberté.
Despite the nearer stations being Bembridge, Yarmouth or Selsey, a decision was made to launch All Weather Lifeboats from Eastbourne and Hastings to go to the migrants’ aid instead, where they ultimately took those onboard to Dover.
The latest crossing comes amid growing questions over the Government’s handling of small boat arrivals and the apparent emergence of a new route from Cherbourg towards Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.
The Constabulary has confirmed that its officers are present in Gosport to support partner agencies in the event of an emergency at sea and to facilitate peaceful protest, with the situation continuing to unfold.
