Police Launch Probe Into Hoax 999 Calls That Spark Coastguard Rescue
Police have launched an investigation after two false 999 calls sparked a major Coastguard rescue operation.
Fake Distress Calls Spark Full-Scale Search
The calls came from a public phone box, reporting someone struggling in the water. Emergency teams, joined by Gosport Lifeboat, rushed to the scene between Port Solent and Trafalgar Wharf. They scoured the area, but found nothing.
Second Hoax Call Adds to Confusion
Roughly 90 minutes later, a second, identical call was made from the same location. Both were quickly ruled malicious, but not before emergency crews were stretched responding to the fake alerts.
Police Investigate Malicious Caller
Police are now probing the hoax calls to find the culprit behind the needless emergency scramble. Officials warn this kind of prank can put real lives at risk and waste vital rescue resources.
