The Nigerian Navy Ship Beecroft has successfully thwarted and apprehended three stowaways from engaging in an illegal migration onboard a Tanker Vessel FRONT Altiers at Lagos Road Stead, bound for Europe.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, 27th December 2023, while acting on reliable intelligence, the patrol team meticulously extracted the stowaways concealed in the rudder compartment of the vessel, preventing them from undue exposure to life-threatening situations during the long voyage.
The individuals were identified as Ebuka Daniel, 29 years old, Enugu state, Samuel Abraham, 32 years old, Edo State and Christian Happy, 32 years old, from Delta state.
The Commander, NNS Beecroft, Commodore Kolawole Olumide Oguntuga, who is also the Maritime Component Commander Operation AWATSE, commended the efforts of the patrol team for their timely intervention, avoiding potential security threats associated with unauthorized access.
In a statement by the Base Information Officer (BINFO), Sub-Lieutenant Happiness Collins, Nigerian Navy Ship Beecroft said on Saturday that the stowaways have been disembarked and handed over to the Nigerian Immigration Service for necessary action.
Meanwhile, it was discovered that the stowaways had boarded with the assistance of fishermen for a fee of N20,000 and N5,000 respectively.
Again, this incident highlights the crucial role of the Nigerian Navy in maritime security and upholding the rule of law, exemplifying the unwavering dedication under the leadership of Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, Chief of the Naval Staff.
