On Tuesday, March 4, Border Force officers intercepted a 'suspicious' boat as it was approaching Plymouth. Smoke was seen coming from the vessel as it headed towards Coxside, and a witness, located in the Elphinstone car park, captured a photograph of the boat which appeared to be on fire.

Border Force Maritime Officers acted swiftly, rescuing three crew members from the boat and working to put out the blaze. Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue crews also responded to the scene, assisting in ensuring the boat was made safe.

A spokesperson from the Home Office stated, “Our Border Force Maritime officers successfully intercepted a suspicious vessel offshore, where they tackled a blaze on board and rescued three crew members.”

Devon and Cornwall Police were also called to the scene, but it is not believed that anyone was taken into custody. A spokesperson for the police said, “Officers attended Mayflower Steps to assist with crowd control following the boat fire.”

PlymouthLive has requested further details from the Home Office regarding the incident.