A MAJOR search has been launched after person plunged overboard from a Stena Line ferry.
The rescue mission started last night in the Belfast Lough area after a man fell from the ferry while it was docking.
A local search and rescue team confirmed they were called out around 10.30pm with the search continuing this morning.
A spokesperson for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency said: “The search has resumed this morning, following new information, for a man who is reported to have fallen from a ferry which was docked in Belfast harbour."
A Stena Line spokesperson said the man had "jumped overboard", adding: "The Coast Guard were alerted and the ship’s Fast Response Craft was launched."
Online boat and aircraft trackers show an RNLI lifeboat, pilot boat, a search and rescue vessel and harbour police patrolling the area close to Green Island.
And a witness told Belfast Live ferry staff had "rushed to the side of the boat" at the time – before escorting passengers inside.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said: "Police and other emergency services are currently involved in an ongoing search of the Belfast Lough area.
"There are no further details at this time and we are asking members of the public to avoid the area."
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