A 30-year-old Sudanese man was arrested in Ramsgate, Kent, early Tuesday morning after allegedly attempting to steal a commercial fishing trawler in an effort to reach France and retrieve his family.
The incident occurred around 3:17 a.m. when the man boarded the shellfish trawler, named Carousel, while the crew were asleep. According to reports, he started the engine and increased its speed, causing the mooring ropes to snap and the vessel to drift into the harbor. The man reportedly insisted that the crew take him to France.
Skipper Olly Swift described the man's actions as reckless, stating that the crew managed to regain control of the boat and secure it before any serious damage occurred. Swift expressed concern over potential damage to the vessel's engine and electrical systems, estimating potential losses of up to £100,000, including lost earnings. He also noted that the crew felt their lives were at risk.
Kent Police confirmed the arrest and stated that a 30-year-old Sudanese man was taken into custody in connection with the incident. Enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances. The Home Office has been approached for further details regarding the man's immigration status.
This event occurs amid a period of increased migrant crossings in the English Channel. Recent figures indicate a significant number of arrivals over a four-day span, with the total number of arrivals since July 2024 exceeding 87,000.