In order to tackle anti-social behaviour that has plagued Gibraltar’s beaches in the past, the Government recently purchased high speed Jet Boat. The vessel is powered by two 1500cc engines and is set to help curb and tackle illicit activity being carried out, at sea.

Commissioner of Police, Eddie Yome noted that the vessel, along with two recently commissioned 1500cc jet bikes, would act as a deterrent against irresponsible action among individuals who perform illicit activities around the beaches, including smuggling and dangerously navigating similar vessels of their own. Commissioner Yome thanked the Government for providing them with these tools, which act as an enhancement for the RGP Marine Section.

Along with these new additions, a third confiscated jet bike has been commissioned for use. the Chief Minister, who visited the vessels this morning, with Justice Minister Gilbert Licudi, explained that the Government had been working with the RGP, since the election to, to deliver this revolution of marine resources, including this much more agile, smaller fleet. He added that the fleet will enable the RGP to carry out that deterrent work in the summer months. Commissioner Yome claimed that the jet boat is the fastest vessel of its kind within Gibraltar, topping speeds of 75 mph.

A course is being carried out for marine section RGP officers who will be manning this fleet. The jet bikes will also be used by Gibraltar Defence Police, operating under the control of the Commissioner of Police. The jet boat will be carried within the Sir William Jackson patrol boat, in order for it to be deployed for operational use within minutes.

Minister Licudi then joined the press and a number of marine section officers aboard the Sir William Jackson, in order to witness the new fleet in action.

The Government recently awarded a tender to a Croatian company, for an additional 25 metre vessel to form part of the RGP’s fleet. A price has been set at £2,132,000.