During the early hours of the 22nd of October, at approximately 02:30, Customs Officers conducting routine patrols within British Gibraltar Territorial Waters (BGTW) observed a small rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RHIB) operating suspiciously. 

The vessel was continuously monitored by the Control Room and subsequently followed as it approached the area of Western Beach. Upon reaching the shoreline, two individuals disembarked and made good their escape on foot despite an immediate search of the surrounding area. 

The RHIB was successfully intercepted, detained and towed to the HM Customs Marine Base for further examination and investigation. The circumstances surrounding the vessel’s presence in BGTW, as well as the identity and intentions of the individuals involved remain under active investigation. 

HM Customs says it continues to work on the security and integrity of Gibraltar’s coastline and territorial waters.