Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp has alleged that a French patrol boat fired a series of gunshots while he was participating in an interview regarding small boat crossings in the Channel. During the filming, a French vessel passed by, and a total of 17 distinct gunshots were heard in the background.
Witnesses observed a French patrol officer positioned at the rear of the boat pointing a pistol toward the sea, which is believed to be the source of the gunfire. The event was described as a highly unusual moment in the otherwise quiet waters of the Channel, with no prior warning or indication of a training exercise before the shots were fired. It remains unclear exactly what the patrol boat was targeting.
Reflecting on the incident, Chris Philp suggested that the actions of the vessel may have been intended as a warning or a deliberate act of intimidation. He stated that the encounter felt like an attempt to discourage the coverage of ongoing migrant crossings. Authorities have been contacted to request an official comment regarding the nature of the incident and the reason for the gunfire.
Noises which sounded like 17 gunshots being fired in succession were heard in the background and an officer on the boat was then seen pointing a pistol at the sea.
Keohan said 17 gunshots rung out mid-interview.
