NNS Beecroft Quick Response Team, acting on intelligence has foiled a desperate attempt by nine stowaways aboard a vessel LYSIAS VALETTA, bound for Spain.
They were extracted from the rudder compartment of the motor tanker on the 3rd of February 2024 at about 12:30 pm.
Meanwhile, the stowaways have been handed over to the Nigerian Immigration Service for necessary action.
Those handed over included: Christian Ikechukwu (32), from Imo State; Dennis Commander (36), from Bayelsa State; Samson Army (24), from Bayelsa State; Aribo Asiko (26), from Ondo State; Shina Folorunsho (36), from Ekiti; Wisdom Egharevba (26), from Edo; Okore Precious (24), from Delta state; Ndukwe Sunday (25), from Enugu, and Agor Joseph (57), Delta state.
The Quick Response Team under the leadership of the Commander, NNS Beecroft, who also is the Maritime Component Commander Operation AWATSE, Commodore Kolawole Olumide Oguntuga, commended the personnel adding that the proactive detection and extraction of the individuals are commendable, preventing them from life-threatening situations during such extended voyage within confined spaces.
While warning people to desist from embarking on dangerous voyages, added that “this action averts potential security threats to the vessel and its crew as well as mitigating embarrassing situations.”
This was contained in a statement by the Base Information Officer (BINFO), Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT, Lieutenant H Ibrahim, adding that the incident underscores the Nigerian Navy’s unwavering commitment to its constitutional role under the leadership of Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, Chief of the Naval staff, reinforcing the dedication to creating a secure maritime environment for the nation’s economic prosperity.
