The Royal Navy was pressed into action as it fired flares at a Spanish research vessel entering Gibraltar’s waters.
The research vessel, Angeles Alvarino, failed to respond to attempts by the HMS Sabre to contact it by radio. It was in the area investigating geological risks to the seabed and left British waters after the flares were fired.
A Ministry of Defence spokesman commented: “The Royal Navy challenges all unlawful maritime incursions into British Gibraltar territorial waters (BGTW).
“We back this up by making formal diplomatic protests to the Spanish government.”
Gibraltar Chief Minister Fabian Picardo confirmed he had been in touch with Commander of British Forces, Commodore Mike Walliker to discuss the incident.
He said: “I have discussed all the tactical decisions taken and am satisfied that they have been designed to demonstrate untrammelled sovereignty jurisdiction and control over BGTW.
“I congratulate the Royal Navy for the work they have undertaken so far in very challenging circumstances in light of the reckless disregard for safety displayed by the official Spanish vessels involved.
“Diplomatic and political action must now support the excellent work undertaken by the navy personnel with limited resources.”
Photo © Crown copyright
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Post written by: Matt Brown
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