The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft has successfully intercepted 19 suspected stowaways attempting to migrate illegally to Europe aboard two vessels in Lagos State.
The suspects, who reportedly boarded the ships under the cover of darkness, concealed themselves in the rudder compartments to avoid detection.
First Interception: MT KRITI RUBY
In a statement issued on Saturday, Lieutenant Hussaini Ibrahim, the Base Information Officer, disclosed that 15 of the stowaways were apprehended following an alarm raised by MT KRITI RUBY via the Nigerian Navy Maritime Domain Awareness Facility, Falcon Eye Alignment.
The statement detailed how the Falcon Eye Alignment vectored the NNS BEECROFT Quick Response Team (QRT) to intercept the suspects near the Lagos fairway buoy.
Second Interception: MT MCC YANBU
An additional four stowaways were intercepted on board MT MCC YANBU based on intelligence provided by NNS BEECROFT personnel assigned to escort the vessel.
Prompt Response Prevented Life-Threatening Risks
Ibrahim highlighted the critical role of the Quick Response Team in averting potential danger to the stowaways, noting the life-threatening risks posed by long voyages in rudder compartments.
“The effect of stowaways on maritime operations cannot be overemphasized as it poses security threats to vessels and facilitates smuggling, piracy, drug trafficking, and human trafficking,” Ibrahim stated.
Commitment to Maritime Security
Under the leadership of Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, the NNS BEECROFT remains committed to maintaining a credible presence along Lagos waterways and adjoining creeks to ensure a safe maritime environment conducive to socioeconomic activities.
Handover to Immigration Authorities
The first 15 suspects were handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service, Lagos State Port/Marine Command, Apapa, on Friday, December 20, 2024, for further investigation and legal action. The remaining four suspects are expected to be handed over soon.
This operation underscores the Navy’s unwavering commitment to combating maritime threats and ensuring the security of Nigeria’s waterways