RNLI volunteers targeted by abuse following anti-migrant protests

RNLI volunteers in the United Kingdom have been targeted with online abuse and physical threats following anti-migrant protests. After lifeboat crews assisted in bringing approximately 120 people ashore from a small boat near the Isle of Wight, protesters in Portsmouth labeled the rescuers “traitors” and “collaborators.”

Reports indicate that the personal information and names of individual volunteers have been circulated on social media. In response, the RNLI has increased security measures for its stations and shops. Volunteers have been advised that they may choose not to wear RNLI-branded clothing in public to avoid being identified and targeted.

RNLI Chief Executive Peter Sparkes described the abuse as “wholly unacceptable,” noting that misinformation regarding the charity’s lifesaving mission has led to volunteers and their families being threatened. The unrest follows separate demonstrations at the Port of Dover, where protesters blocked roads and disrupted traffic.