RAF Scampton: Break-in at proposed asylum camp is live streamed

The Home Office is investigating after a break-in at a former RAF base earmarked for use as an asylum centre was live streamed. Plans to house up to 2,000 asylum seekers at RAF Scampton, near Lincoln, have been met with strong opposition. Over the weekend, a group gained access to the site and streamed their expedition live on social media.

Police said they would review the footage that purportedly showed the intended living quarters for migrants. Following the live stream, a group posted on Facebook: “We weren’t expecting the support we received, or the help in distracting the security. Keep up with the protests.

We will be back.”

Up to 2,000 asylum seekers could be placed at the site in Lincolnshire, the government has said A Home Office spokesperson said the incident had been reported to police.

However, Lincolnshire Police said no formal report had been filed with them, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service[1]. “We are aware of a Facebook post which shows people seemingly on the base at the former RAF Scampton site,” a police spokesperson said. “We will fully review this and determine if there are any offences, and if so, we will look to take appropriate actions against those responsible.”

In December, West Lindsey District Council, which covers Scampton, announced it would appeal against a High Court ruling that up to 2,000 asylum seekers could be housed on the site. Council leader Trevor Young said: “Our position has always been clear that this site is not suitable.” Historians have also objected to the government’s plans for the site, which has links with the Dambusters squadron.

Fifty-three airmen were killed in the famous mission, which targeted three German dams on 16 and 17 May 1943. Commenting on the latest incident, Liberal Democrats councillor Mr Young said: “It’s disappointing that despite continued reassurance from the Home Office that they would protect the heritage of the site, there appears to have been another breach. “We will be looking to speak to the Home Office as a matter of urgency to look into this matter.”

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References

1. ^ Local Democracy Reporting Service (www.bbc.com)
2. ^ Facebook (www.facebook.com)
3. ^ X (formerly Twitter) (twitter.com)
4. ^ Instagram (www.instagram.com)