Tent at Gosport marina does not belong to under-fire RNLI as police seek to defuse tensions
The RNLI has been criticised for its role in bringing migrants ashore in Portsmouth
Social media speculation that a large tent at a Gosport marina belonged to the under-fire RNLI is incorrect, according to police.
A large tent at Premier Marina on Haslar Road has been the subject of fevered online rumours.
It comes after the RNLI’s role in saving migrants who were transported them to Eastney last week, landing at the Hayling Ferry pontoon and sparking protests and fears of more asylum seekers coming to the area. Tents and other items were spotted at the location ahead of the migrants arrival.
RNLI staff were subsequently subjected to an online hate campaign with the charity reporting some of its staff had been physically assaulted.
Questions were raised on social media about the mystery Gosport shelter which has now resulted in police being forced to issue a public response to defuse tensions.
A police statement said: “We are aware of a social media post circulating in relation to a tent located within the Premier Marina on Haslar Road, Gosport.
“Following enquiries with the marina, we can confirm that the tent is not connected to the RNLI in any way. The structure has been in its current location for several years and is used by the marina for outdoor storage purposes.
“The tent is situated within a secure compound and is not accessible to the public. We are providing this clarification to address misinformation and to prevent unnecessary concern or speculation arising from the social media post.
“Thank you for helping to ensure that information shared online is accurate.”