Jul 09 - RGP Explains Its Policing Approach At Sea Following Tuesday’s Incident
- RGP entered international waters last Tuesday
- Operational responses “under constant review”
- RGP will only enter international waters in a search and rescue operation or in response to a “credible threat to life”
- Seafarers encouraged to carry all necessary documentation, navigate safely
- Seafarers warned that evasive manoeuvres can lead to escalation and increase in danger
The Royal Gibraltar Police says it is aware that some members of the community are expressing discontent at the manner of the police intervention during an incident at sea on Tuesday the 5th of July.
At around 1930hrs that day, officers of the Marine Section responded aboard the vessel, Sir Adrian Johns, after a number of local fishermen radioed for assistance close to the limits of BGTW off the eastern seaboard. The RGP says that whilst officers have instructions not to operate outside BGTW, given the nature of the calls, and the number received, the officers took the decision to venture beyond BGTW and into International Waters. At just over three and a half miles east of Gibraltar, and beyond BGTW, they came upon a Guardia Civil vessel in pursuit of a locally registered sports fishing vessel. The officers attempted to approach the two vessels on the 5m tender RHIB which had been deployed from the Sir Adrian Johns. They were unable to make contact prior to the detention by Guardia Civil of the vessel and its occupants.
The RGP says it will continue to exercise its jurisdiction within BGTW and will support Royal Navy assets responding to challenges to sovereignty. Operational responses in conjunction with other Gibraltar maritime agencies are under constant review and will be tailored as necessary.
RGP vessels will only venture onto International Waters when involved in a search and rescue operation or in response to a credible threat to life.
The RGP stresses that seafarers are advised to sail with the required personal and vessel documentation, safety equipment, and also carry means of communication. Seafarers should also contact maritime local authorities immediately should they be the subject of interference by external law enforcement whilst within BGTW. Seafarers are further advised not to engage in any manoeuvres which may endanger themselves or others and to navigate safely at all times. Engaging in evasive manoeuvres may lead to escalation and increasing danger.
In the next few days the RGP says it will be seeking to meet representative associations of boat owners and fishermen to offer reassurance.
Further information on documentation and equipment required when sailing beyond BGTW can be obtained by contacting the Gibraltar Port Authority on 20046254.
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