AN investigation has been launched after a 25ft yacht was found abandoned off the coast.
A lifeboat was called after the yacht was spotted drifting at the mouth of the River Ore with nobody on board.
Aldeburgh Lifeboat Station launched the RNLI’s inshore lifeboat, Christine, at 11.30am on Friday.
When they arrived, the crew discovered there was nobody on board. A towrope was attached and the vessel was towed to Orford by the lifeboat, which was back at Aldeburgh station by 4.15pm.
The recovery of the yacht involved the coastguard, police and UK Border Force. An investigation has since been started but it is unclear who is leading the inquiry.
A Border Force spokesman said: “We can confirm Border Force officers assisted with the search of an abandoned yacht found by HM Coastguard at Orford Ness, Suffolk.”
None of the agencies involved were able to confirm or deny suggestions that Dutch charts and maps were found on board along with paperwork regarding a Dutch prisoner, after it was towed to Orford Quay.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here