A team of 68 specialist firefighters from Merseyside and other UK fire services has been deployed to Venezuela following two devastating earthquakes that have killed more than 900 people and injured 3,360. The UK International Search and Rescue team, led by Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, flew out from RAF Brize Norton on Friday aboard an RAF plane carrying six sniffer dogs and equipment including drones.
UK Team Responds to Venezuelan Government Request
The deployment came after the Venezuelan government requested international aid. The two earthquakes, of magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5, struck a minute apart on Wednesday night. The second quake was the strongest to hit Venezuela since 1900. Many people are still believed to be trapped under rubble, with two 17-story buildings at the Belo Horizonte residential complex in Catia La Mar, La Guaira, collapsing.
The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) confirmed that the UK team includes firefighters from 14 services, with Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service in the lead. Other participating services include Cheshire, Greater Manchester, Lancashire, and contingents from London, the South East, Scotland, South Wales, and the Midlands. The team previously worked on the ground in Turkey and Morocco in 2023.
NFCC Chair and Government Officials Express Support
NFCC Chair Phil Garrigan, who formerly led Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, said: "The thoughts of everyone across the UK's fire and rescue services are with those affected by the devastating earthquakes in Venezuela. In response to a request made through the UK government, a team of highly trained UK firefighters and specialist medics has been deployed to support the international rescue effort. These firefighters bring exceptional skill, experience and dedication, and will work alongside local and international teams to provide vital search and rescue support where it is needed most, with the intent to help save lives in extremely challenging conditions. Their mission is clear and I know they will respond with focus, compassion and care."
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office confirmed that the deployment is part of an initial £2 million in humanitarian funding. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said: "My thoughts are with the people of Venezuela following this week's devastating earthquakes. The UK stands in solidarity with all those affected, particularly those who have lost loved ones, homes and livelihoods. We are making £2m of emergency humanitarian funding available and are working closely with international partners to ensure vital support reaches those most in need as quickly as possible."
Foreign Secretary Details Aid Package
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper added: "The UK has sent support to Venezuela following these devastating earthquakes. Our specialist search and rescue teams are deploying to help save lives, and we are providing a £2 million package to support the humanitarian response. We continue to work closely with international partners to ensure help reaches those affected as fast as possible."
