Major Search Underway After Clothes Found on Eastney Beach
A massive search operation is in full swing this lunchtime after a pile of clothes was spotted on Eastney Beach near the coffee café. A concerned member of the public raised the alarm by calling the police.
Coastguard and Lifeboats Scramble to the Scene
Teams from Portsmouth Coastguard Search and Rescue, the RNLI lifeboat crew, and local police have swarmed the area. Two lifeboats were scrambled just before 1pm, with an additional search and rescue team from Hayling Island called in for backup.
The search covers a wide stretch from Lee-on-the-Solent to Southsea and Hayling Island. Coastguard crews have even extended the hunt as far as Chichester, combing the waters and the shoreline.
Police and Coastguards Hunt on Foot and by Air
Hampshire Police officers and multiple coastguard teams are conducting thorough foot searches along Southsea Seafront and nearby locations. Police are also scanning vehicles in the area to help identify any missing person connected to the clothing.
Two MoD police boats have joined the hunt, and the coastguard helicopter Rescue 104 is scanning from above between Fort Gilkicker and Chichester Harbour.
What We Know So Far – Officials Speak Out
“We received a call this morning about clothing found on the beach,” said Tom Wright, Coastguard Incident Commander. “The clothing includes grey jogging bottoms and an e-cigarette,” he added.
“We’ve launched multiple search teams from Portsmouth, Hillhead, Hayling Island, and called in an officer from Dorset to assist. Lifeboats and the rescue helicopter have covered a large search area today.”
Wright urged anyone who knows someone missing or who recognises the clothing to contact the police or coastguard immediately.
The extensive search efforts have now paused and are likely to stand down unless new information or belongings come to light.
Got Information? Speak Up Now
If you have any information that could help the investigation, call Hampshire Police on 101 without delay.
