A total of 9 male persons (Aged between 21-35yrs) all of whom are believed to be Moroccan nationals, have been arrested by RGP officers throughout the course of today across various sections of Gibraltar’s east side and former Water Catchments area.

The arrests followed information received regarding a small inflatable vessel having beached at Blackstrap Cove (between Catalan/Sandy Bay) at approximately 0915hrs, as a result of which a security cordon was established and a major search operation instigated. The operation conducted throughout the course of today on both land and sea has involved a significant number of RGP officers and assets from various units, including Dog Handlers.

The Royal Gibraltar Police has been supported throughout the course of today’s operation by officers from the Gibraltar Defence Police, HM Customs, The Royal Gibraltar Regiment and the Borders & Coastguard Agency.

All 9 detainees are currently being processed and interviewed at New Mole House Police station.

Based on the information available, the RGP is satisfied that all persons travelling on board the vessel in question have been accounted for, however, the investigation is ongoing.