In another sting operation borne out of exceptional vigilance, the Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT patrol team intercepted 11 stowaways onboard GUANGZHOU HIGHWAY PANAMA, which was en route to Ghana.
According to the Base Information Officer (BINFO), Lt Happiness Collins said in a statement on Thursday that they were apprehended while on routine patrol on Tuesday, October 17, 2023, at about 7 p.m. at obscured spaces of the stern gate onboard the ship.
It was learnt that the Western Regional Control Center (WRCC) was immediately informed and prompted the vessel to halt within Lagos anchorage.
Part of the statement indicated that “Initially, four stowaways were apprehended from the stern of the vessel. However, information provided by these individuals revealed the presence of additional stowaways inside the ship.
“Following a comprehensive search, an astonishing seven more stowaways were uncovered within the ship, bringing the total to 11 stowaways who were promptly disembarked from the vessel and taken into custody.”
The apprehended individuals were identified as Shedrack David, 19, from Ondo State; Emmanuel Godbless, 30, Delta State; Ibrahim Hassan, 30, Adamawa State;
Solomon Francis, 21, Ondo State;
Bolaji Johnson, 28, Ondo State;
Samsom Aimy, 37, Bayelsa State;
Ayefuwei Collins, 27, Delta State;
Ayo Gula, 28, Delta State; Jolomi Daniel, 23, Ondo State; Abubakar Ibrahim, 19, Zamfara State and Precious Uwalogho, 30, Delta State.
Meanwhile, they have been handed over to the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) in accordance with the established protocols.
While warning people not to endanger their lives, the Commander, NNS Beecroft, Commodore Kolawole Olumide Oguntuga said that “apart from the stowaways putting themselves in life-threatening situations during the long voyage at sea, they also present a myriad of safety and security challenges.
“Accordingly, this arrest and handover by the patrol team is an essential reminder of the critical role the Nigerian Navy plays in ensuring maritime security as well as upholding the rule of law which underscores the Navy’s unwavering dedication under the watch of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral EI Ogalla, towards maintaining the security of the country’s maritime domain.
