Police seize banned RHIB

Two Spanish nationals were arrested by police after a high-speed chase off Europa Point.

A police interceptor chased a 10.5m rigid-hulled inflatable boat powered by two 350hp engines as it performed dangerous and evasive manoeuvres yesterday morning, the Royal Gibraltar Police said.

The RHIB is of a type banned in Gibraltar under local legislation.

Customs officers on board HMC Seeker also assisted the the RGP.

Antonio Castillo Morillo, a 47-year old Spanish national resident in La Linea, was charged with operating a fast launch without a licence, importing a prohibited import, obstructing police and possession of a small amount of cannabis resin.

Antonio Moreno Aguilera, 48 years old and also from La Linea, was charged with importing a prohibited import.

Both men were detained in police custody and were set to appear before the Magistrates Court this morning.

Their vessel, additional fuel, communications and navigation equipment and other provisions have been seized.