Independent MP Rupert Lowe has come under scrutiny after mistakenly identifying a team of charity rowers as potential "illegal migrants" off the coast of Great Yarmouth. The incident unfolded when Lowe, who was elected as a Reform UK MP but now sits as an independent, posted a picture on social media showing a boat near wind turbines, claiming it could be carrying migrants. The post prompted a swift response from the coastguard, who contacted the crew to verify their identities.

Charity Rowers Mistaken for Migrants

The rowing team, known as Row4MND, was in the midst of a fundraising journey from Land's End to John o'Groats to raise awareness and funds for motor neurone disease. The crew, which includes Mike Bates, a British record-holder for rowing solo across the Atlantic, was surprised to find themselves the subject of a coastguard inquiry. Bates recounted the moment, saying, "I looked to my right and there was maybe a dozen individuals stood on the shoreline staring at us."

Lowe's Immigration Stance and Public Reaction

Lowe, who has been vocal about his calls for mass deportations to tackle illegal migration, initially expressed determination to ensure the deportation of the individuals if they were indeed migrants. However, upon realizing the mistake, he pledged to donate £1,000 to the charity. Despite the mix-up, Lowe defended his actions, citing a duty to his constituents and describing the situation as a "national crisis."

Amusement and Vigilante Concerns

The rowing crew, which also includes Matthew Parker, Aaron Kneebone, and Liz Wardley, found humor in the situation. Bates, a former Royal Marine, noted the irony of being mistaken for a migrant, adding, "The best comment was the one asking where the Royal Navy were when you need them." The incident has raised concerns about vigilante-style actions, with people reportedly following the crew along the beach.