The Government has received reports of a Spanish Civil Guard launch taking executive action in British Gibraltar Territorial Waters this morning (Thursday 8th August 2019).

A local tuna fisherman who had engaged a fish on his line was approached by a Spanish patrol boat. An official on the Spanish vessel proceeded to cut the fishing line and then the launch simply left the scene.

The whole incident has been recorded on video.

The Government considers that this behavior on the part of law enforcement agents is totally unacceptable. It runs contrary to the professions of dialogue and cooperation that we hear so much about from other quarters and it does nothing to encourage mutual trust and respect.

British citizens are entitled to go about their lawful business in British waters without being subject to any interference from the agents of another state.

The incident has been taken up with the United Kingdom.