An RNLI volunteer in Portsmouth, identified as Neil, stated he is not a 'traitor' after being falsely accused online of assisting migrants arriving by small boats. Neil and other RNLI crew members were filmed near Portsmouth Harbour during anti-migrant protests on Sunday. Activists shared footage online, incorrectly claiming that the crew had helped migrants reach shore, with some posts encouraging the identification of the volunteers. These posts garnered at least two million views and included incorrect names of RNLI crew members.
Neil clarified that the lifeboat was present to illuminate the beach and protect protesters who had entered the water, rather than to assist migrants. He reported receiving abusive messages, including calls for him to be denied service in pubs and suggestions that his family should be tracked down. At least one post was removed by X for violating its rules.
This incident coincided with a protest where approximately 60 individuals gathered outside the RNLI's headquarters in Poole, Dorset, expressing concerns about the potential arrival of more migrant boats on the central south coast. This protest followed the rescue of around 140 migrants by two RNLI lifeboats in the English Channel, who were taken to Eastney, Portsmouth. The lifeboat carrying the migrants was denied permission to land at Southampton Port or Portsmouth Harbour, with warnings that entering either port could lead to criminal prosecution.
As a result, the boat transported the migrants to Eastney, a less central landing point. Following this operation, RNLI volunteers, including those involved in the Portsmouth rescue, faced threats and abuse. Members of the anti-migrant group Poole Patriots participated in the protest outside the RNLI HQ, accusing the charity of criminal activity for assisting in the arrival of unvetted individuals.
Some protesters distributed rape alarms to women and girls present, claiming a need for self-protection. Protesters expressed concerns about crime and immigration, with speakers calling for the RNLI to cease its operations related to migrant rescues. The RNLI increased security and closed many public-facing facilities during the protest, which lasted two hours. A memorial sculpture dedicated to RNLI volunteers was cordoned off and covered to protect it ahead of the demonstration.