The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT’s patrol team has stalled plans of some individuals from embarking on an illegal voyage, onboard a container vessel, NATAL, heading to Abidjan.
Commander NNS BEECROFT, Commodore Kolawole Olumide Oguntuga, said the eight stowaways attempted to illegally exit the country through the vessel.
According to him, the suspects were arrested at about 8:40a.m. on Friday, November 3, by the patrol team, who acting on reliable intelligence, boarded the vessel at Lagos Anchorage.
The suspects are Jerry Benjamin, 22, Ben Tony, 19, Victory Ekemele, 16 and Ike Destiny 17, all from Delta State, while Ebuka Solomon 25, and Christian Eze, 26 came from Enugu State.
James Vincent, 25 came from Edo State and David Abamiyo, 27 is from Ondo State.
Commodore Oguntuga, commended the patrol team for meticulously evacuating the eight stowaways who concealed themselves inside the rudder compartment of the vessel.
“The brave efforts and timely intervention of the patrol team prevented the individuals from being exposed to life threatening situations in such a confined compartment for the long voyage as well as other security threats associated with unauthorised access to such facilities.
“In a seamless transition, the stowaways were handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) in accordance with the established protocols for further necessary action.
“Pertinently, the remarkable arrest and handover of the individuals, is a testament to the Nigerian Navy’s unwavering commitment in conducting its constitutional role. It also underscores the dedication of the Nigerian Navy under the esteemed leadership of Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, towards ensuring the nation’s maritime environment is conducive for legitimate business to thrive for the economic prosperity of our nation,” he added.
