Stolen Rib Drama at Seaview Yacht Club Ends in Police Bust
Hampshire and Isle of Wight police teamed up with Bembridge Coastguard this evening after a stolen RIB was spotted at Seaview Yacht Club. The high-speed inflatable boat was reported stolen from a trailer on Hayling Island earlier in the day.
Trio Detained After Coastguard Rescue
Officers detained three people found with the stolen vessel. The suspects, believed to have crossed over from the mainland, were reportedly heading to the Isle of Wight to find a prime spot for the upcoming Around the Island race this Saturday.
Distress Call Heard on Coastguard Channel
A mariner picked up the trio’s desperate call for help on the coastguard distress channel. With no power left, the RIB was towed into Seaview. The trio were heavily intoxicated and shockingly, had no lifejackets, flares, charts, or any safety gear on board. No back-up plan was in place should they run into trouble.
Ryde Inshore Rescue Steps In
At the coastguard’s request, Ryde Inshore Rescue launched their lifeboat. Crews boarded the battered RIB and escorted the soaked and weary trio back to Hayling Island, where Hampshire Police were waiting.
Coastguard Issues Stark Safety Warning
Bembridge’s Coastguard team delivered a blunt safety message: never go to sea unprepared. The trio’s reckless voyage without essential safety checks or equipment put their lives in serious danger.
