A search and rescue operation involving Border Force staff has been taking place today (June 3) off the coast near Hastings.
The officers from the Home Office division are are working with police, coastguards including a helicopter crew, and volunteer rescue teams.
Officials said their concern during this operation is the "preservation of life".
They added that anyone rescued will be handed over to authorities or land-based emergency services.
In a statement given to More Radio this afternoon, H.M. Coastguard said:
"We are currently coordinating a search and rescue response to an incident off Hastings, Sussex, working with Border Force, Sussex Police and other partners.
"We have sent coastguard rescue teams from Hastings, Dungeness and Bexhill, alongside Dungeness RNLI lifeboats and the search and rescue helicopter from Lydd.
"We are committed to safeguarding life around the seas and coastal areas of this country.
"H.M. Coastguard is only concerned with preservation of life, rescuing those in trouble and bringing them safely back to shore, where they will be handed over to the relevant partner emergency services or authorities."
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