Joint operation protects borders

Officers had to battle heavy seas to reach some of the islands

Counter terrorism officers have carried out a four-day operation in the Isles of Scilly with Devon and Cornwall Police.

The aim of Operation Panther was to provide a high-visibility demonstration of the UK Border Agency's controls.

Police officers boarded vessels, spoke to crews, checked identity documents and conducted searches where necessary.

Divers also searched external keels for illegal "limpets", which criminals use to smuggle drugs or firearms.

'Very successful'

"Drugs and weapon smuggling, people trafficking and terrorism all pose a risk to this country," Insp Dan Evans, who led the operation, said.

"By working with the border agency, the police are better able to intercept people committing such offences."

During the operation, teams had to battle heavy seas to reach some of the islands.

Marine counter terrorism divers carried out keel searches

Insp Evans told BBC News nothing illegal was found and no arrests made, during the four-day operation earlier this month.

"We would call that a very successful operation," he said.

"It sends out a clear message to those who do not welcome our presence."

St Marys neighbourhood beat manager, Pc Tony Kan, was also involved in Operation Panther.

"This was an effective operation in terms of keeping the Scillies safe," he said.

"I hope it is reassuring for the residents to see the police and the border agency working together in such a visible way a long way from the mainland."