Full Breakdown
RNLI Volunteers Targeted After Channel Rescue Amid Far-Right Protests
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
On September 6, RNLI lifeboats brought a dinghy carrying roughly 120-140 migrants ashore at Eastney, Portsmouth. The arrival sparked road blockades and confrontations with police as far-right demonstrators in balaclavas attempted to stop the rescue. Within hours, volunteers’ names, photographs and home addresses were posted on social media, with some users labeling them “traitors.” The charity reported online harassment and isolated incidents of physical intimidation directed at crew members.
Background & Context
The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is a 200-year-old charity tasked by HM Coastguard to assist anyone in distress at sea, regardless of nationality. In 2025 the RNLI launched 9,058 times, of which 109 (1.2 %) were to vessels classified as “small boats” in the Channel. The Home Office reported that, up to September 7 2026, migrant arrivals by small boats were down 43 % year-on-year, and nearly 95 % of those who do cross are intercepted by the UK Border Force.
Data & Statistics
- 9,058 RNLI launches in 2025; 109 to Channel small-boat incidents.
- 120-140 migrants rescued on September 6.
- 95 % of Channel small-boat migrants were rescued or intercepted by the Border Force.
Official Statements & Responses
Police forces in Dorset, Hampshire and Sussex confirmed heightened patrols around RNLI sites and investigations into “offensive and threatening” online commentary.
Criticism & Opposition
Far-right activists, including Stephen Yaxley-Lennon (Tommy Robinson) and his associate Daniel Thomas (Danny Tommo), framed the rescue as an “invasion” and urged the public to stop donating to the RNLI. Ryan Ferguson, a self-identified neo-Nazi, posted volunteers’ personal details on X and called them “traitors,” later claiming he was merely “reporting what [he] have seen.”
These figures have promoted narratives that the RNLI functions as a “taxi service for illegal immigration” and have circulated fabricated claims that the charity houses asylum seekers or moves them to secret locations.
On-the-Ground Reports
Local residents in Portsmouth described the protest as “truly terrifying,” noting that masked men blocked roads for hours and that police officers sustained injuries during the stand-off.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Rescue size: The Guardian reports 120 migrants rescued, while the Independent cites 140.
- Port access: GB News claims the Southampton and Portsmouth harbour masters denied the RNLI entry, whereas the RNLI spokesperson says the vessels were redirected to Eastney after the ports declined to receive them.
- Future security: The RNLI has issued guidance to volunteers but has not detailed long-term security investments or the outcome of police investigations.
Verbatim Quotes
- “These are volunteers who risk their lives to go out and save anyone at sea” — Knox-Johnson
- “Their action, in contrast, is wholly unacceptable in a civilised society.” — Peter Sparkes, RNLI chief executive
- “We would advise anyone considering carrying out any action that could hinder the RNLI's vital lifesaving work to carefully consider the implications.” — Chief Inspector Adam McCaig
What’s Next
The RNLI will continue to review its safety protocols and has asked volunteers to report threats internally and to police. Police forces remain on heightened alert at RNLI stations on the south coast. Government minister Lisa Nandy has indicated discussions with technology firms about removing doxxing-related posts, though no specific timetable has been announced. The charity expects to maintain its rescue mandate while navigating heightened public scrutiny and security challenges.