Two Customs officers injured in high-speed chase at sea

Two Gibraltarian Customs officers sustained minor injuries after their vessel was rammed during a high-speed nighttime chase at sea on Friday.

The officers were on the Customs interceptor HMC Searcher when they spotted a suspicious vessel heading toward the eastern shoreline.

When challenged, the crew on the suspicious vessel sped off and began to jettison cargo as they were chased.

At one point the suspect vessel’s engine stalled and HMC Searcher crossed its bow to block its path.

"The suspect vessel however regained power and proceeded to ram HMC Searcher, causing damage to the vessel and injuring two officers," Customs said in a statement.

At this point the Royal Gibraltar Police joined the chase and suspect vessel continued conducting dangerous manoeuvres in its attempt to escape, causing another collision with the HMC Searcher.

The vessel was eventually intercepted and police and Customs officers jumped on board.

The vessel was searched but nothing was found.

The three occupants were arrested and conveyed to New Mole House police station where they have been remanded in custody. The vessel was detained by HM Customs and is currently in their custody.

Two Customs officers were subsequently treated for minor injuries at St Bernard’s Hospital and later discharged.

Investigations into the incident continue.

The Collector of Customs has emphasised how this incident highlights the ongoing co-operation between local law enforcement in the fight against crime.