A MAJOR search and rescue mission was launched off the Harwich coast after it is believed migrants were swept overboard from a dinghy.

The Standard understands a dinghy carrying migrants was first spotted 40 miles off the Essex coast and that one or more men may have been swept overboard.

It is believed two other men may have been rescued.

The Home Office said Border Force officers were today involved in the “urgent” incident off the coast.

HM Coastguard co-ordinated the operation with RNLI boats also said to have been in attendance.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency said a coastguard helicopter and a plane were sent to the incident.

It added: “HM Coastguard has been co-ordinating a search and rescue response to an incident off Essex, working with Border Force and other partners.

“We sent the coastguard helicopter from Lydd and a coastguard fixed wing aircraft.

“HM Coastguard will continue to safeguard life around the seas and coastal areas of the UK, working with search and rescue resources in the area.

“If a vessel needs search and rescue assistance, HM Coastguard will continue to respond and rescue those in danger.”

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A lifeguard at RNLI Harwich confirmed its boat was called out twice on Monday - at 4.25pm and 11.35pm - in relation to the incident.

A Home Office spokesman said the department would provide further details after the situation had been resolved.

A spokesman said: “Border Force and the UK Coastguard are currently working on a coordinated search and rescue operation following an incident on Monday.

“Further details will be provided once the situation has been resolved.”

Harwich and North Essex MP Sir Bernard Jenkin said: “Obviously the potential loss of life is extremely distressing.

“We should be extremely grateful to Border Force, the RNLI and search and rescue teams for all their efforts.

“We must redouble our efforts to deal with the criminal gangs who are trafficking migrants, taking money from them and putting them in great peril.”