During the early hours of today, at approximately 0430hrs HM Customs Vessel Searcher intercepted a four-engined suspect RHIB carrying four persons on board near the North Mole. The RHIB was observed transporting a large amount of petrol containers.

As HMCV Searcher manoeuvred to close in on the suspect vessel it immediately turned south in the direction of Europa Point, attempting to evade capture.

During the ensuing pursuit the persons on board the suspect RHIB began jettisoning the fuel containers into the sea and throwing missiles at HMCV Searcher, causing damage to a cabin window of the Customs vessel.

The chase continued round to the eastern side of Gibraltar where the Guardia Civil vessel Río Flumen was positioned to assist. Ultimately the vessel made good its escape but through the joint efforts of the Gibraltar Defence Police’s Patrol Vessel, HMC Searcher, and Río Flumen, a total of 99 petrol cans were successfully recovered from the sea. The fuel is estimated to have a street retail value of £2600 and was clearly intended to provide logistical support to narcotics RHIBs operating in the area.

HM Customs extends its gratitude to the Gibraltar Defence Police for their valuable support and coordination during this operation.

HM Customs remains fully committed to combating illegal maritime activity and to ensuring that Gibraltar’s waters and borders remain secure at all times.

ENDS