Alleged asylum seekers found in van in Whitchurch

The van arrived at Bell Street on Wednesday, May 31, filled with furniture for a new resident who had just moved to the town from France, locals have said.  

When the van was opened, three boys were found inside the back of the van and police were called. 

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A local resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said neighbours had bought food and drink for the men while they waited with the police. 

They said: "It's so refreshing to see how kind people can be in the most unique set of circumstances."

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There had initially been nine police cars and an ambulance on the scene, but this has since been reduced.

This paper understands that the boys have since been moved into one of the guest rooms in the area, accompanied by police and members of the local authority.

A spokesperson for Hampshire police said: "We were called just after 10am when a number of boys were found in the back of a van in Whitchurch. Officers are liaising with the local authority."