Search called off for man in sea at Sheerness

 

Kent Police has called off the search for a man who was reported to have walked into the sea at Sheerness.

After extensive enquiries they now believe the man found his own way out of the water and is safe and well.

Kent Police officers, the police helicopter, the RNLI, Coastguard and Kent Fire and Rescue Service were all involved in an extensive search of the sea and coastline.

The search followed a single vehicle road traffic collision involving a silver Renault Clio in Strode Crescent, Sheerness, shortly after 11pm on Friday 24 March 2017.

Three people were arrested at the scene on suspicion of taking a car without consent. One man was seen entering the sea.

Detective Chief Inspector Adam Ball said concerns for the man’s welfare had prompted the search operation.

‘The sea was extremely rough and there was a genuine concern for the man’s safety,’ he said.

‘However, after extensive enquiries, we now believe that he found his own way out of the water. We still wish to speak to him.

‘In the meantime I would like to thank the public and our partner agencies for their help and support.’

Officers are appealing for anyone who saw the Clio earlier in the evening to contact police.

If you have any information please call Kent Police on 01795 419119 or Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 quoting reference 24-1624.

A 19-year-old woman and a 29-year-old woman, who were arrested on suspicion of taking a car without consent, have been released without charge.

A 27-year-old man, who was also arrested on suspicion of taking a car without consent, has been bailed while enquiries continue.

supplied by Kent Police