Indian Navy Sailors Mistaken for Migrants by UK Protesters

Indian Navy sailors participating in a training exercise in Britain were mistaken for migrants by anti-immigration protesters in Plymouth, leading to reports to local police. The organization Devon and Cornwall Patriot Defence posted on social media, sharing images of men on Plymouth Hoe and expressing concerns that they might be migrants.

The group's Facebook post last Friday also mentioned allegations of people being followed, photos being taken, and local burglaries and assaults, suggesting that groups were gathering outside a local gym. The post claimed that these concerns "deserve to be looked into properly."

However, it was later confirmed that the individuals were servicemen from the Indian frigate INS Trishul, which was in port for Exercise KONKAN-26, a joint bilateral maritime exercise with the Royal Navy. The sailors were reportedly sightseeing while on leave.

Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed they had received a report from two teenage girls who felt uneasy due to the presence of a group of approximately 20 men. Officers stated that there was "no interaction" and the girls came to no harm. The force also clarified that the men were not wearing balaclavas, contrary to initial reports, although some may have been wearing snoods.

Following inquiries, including reviewing CCTV footage and speaking with witnesses, police stated that "no criminal offences have been identified at this time." They acknowledged the commentary on social media and appreciated the community's concerns, adding that any reported incidents would be investigated.

Exercise KONKAN-26, which took place in two phases off Plymouth from October 8-15, is described as a testament to the maritime partnership between India and the UK. The exercise has grown in scale and complexity over two decades, enhancing interoperability and mutual understanding in maritime operations. The harbour phase included professional interactions, cross-deck visits, sports fixtures, cultural engagements, and ship visits, while the sea phase involved complex maritime operational drills across air, surface, and sub-surface domains.

Captain Iain Richie of HMS Naval Port Devonport welcomed the INS Trishul, calling it "a great pleasure to host the ship." The incident echoes a similar event in Portsmouth where anti-immigration protesters demonstrated outside a hotel, only to discover the occupants were members of Pakistan's under-19 cricket team. Such incidents have occurred amidst increased anti-migrant sentiment and protests along the south coast of England.