A major emergency services operation is currently underway in Kent following reports of a popular local boxer missing after entering the water near Northfleet.
Kent Police were alerted at approximately 2.51pm on Wednesday 27 May 2026 after concerns were raised for a person in the Galley Hill Road area of Swanscombe. Officers remain on site alongside multiple emergency service agencies as an extensive search continues.
The response involves Kent Police specialist water rescue teams, thermal drone operators, volunteers from Kent Search and Rescue, and the HART team from the South East Coast Ambulance Service.
Police have established cordons around the area while emergency crews conduct searches of the water and surrounding shoreline. Family members of the missing man have been advised to stay at home as officers carry out enquiries and rescue efforts.
Local residents have reported seeing a significant emergency services presence throughout the afternoon and evening, including rescue boats, emergency vehicles, and drone teams operating over the water.
A man at the scene, who wished to remain anonymous, said the missing individual was believed to be a member of the local boxing gym and was well-known within the community. He added, “I just wish young people would listen to the warnings about the dangers of going into the water.”
The incident has caused widespread concern locally as emergency services continue their search efforts.
At this stage, police have not released further details regarding the circumstances surrounding the incident. Search operations remain ongoing, and the public is urged to avoid the area while emergency crews work at the scene.
Further updates are expected from Kent Police as the situation develops.
A spokesperson for Kent Police said: “Kent Police was called at around 2.51pm on Wednesday 27 May 2026 due to concerns for a person in the Galley Hill Road area of Swanscombe. Officers are currently at the scene along with other emergency services.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
