
The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft has intercepted 19 suspected stowaways attempting to illegally migrate to Europe aboard vessels in Lagos State.
According to a statement released on Saturday by Lieutenant Hussaini Ibrahim, the Base Information Officer, the suspects had boarded the vessels covertly under the cover of darkness, concealing themselves in the rudder compartments. Their plan was to stow away undetected as the ships made their way to Europe.
The first 15 stowaways were intercepted on Friday, December 20, 2024, following an alarm raised by the vessel MT KRITI RUBY through the Nigerian Navy’s Maritime Domain Awareness Facility, Falcon Eye Alignment. This alerted NNS Beecroft's Quick Response Team, which successfully intercepted the suspects at the Lagos fairway buoy.
"The stowaways boarded the vessels at night, hiding in the rudder compartment," said Ibrahim. "The prompt action by our Quick Response Team helped prevent the stowaways from facing life-threatening conditions during their journey."
An additional four stowaways were intercepted aboard the vessel MT MCC YANBU, following credible intelligence provided by NNS Beecroft personnel on escort duty.
The Navy emphasized the security risks posed by stowaways, who can contribute to a range of criminal activities at sea, including piracy, drug trafficking, and human smuggling. Ibrahim further stated that the Navy's presence would remain strong along Lagos waterways and nearby creeks, ensuring a secure environment for maritime operations and economic activities.
The first 15 stowaways were handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service on Friday for further investigation and legal action. The remaining four are expected to be handed over soon.
This interception underscores the Navy’s ongoing efforts to combat illegal migration and other maritime security threats.
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