Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft’s Patrol Team has thwarted Illegal migration aboard tanker vessel, FRONT Altiers, in Lagos.
Speaking on the development on Friday, the commander, NNS Beecroft and also Component commander, Operation AWATSE, Commodore Kolawole Olumide Oguntuga, said the vessel was “successfully intercepted and apprehended three stowaways attempting illegal migration on the Tanker Vessel FRONT Altiers at Lagos road stead, bound for Europe.”
According to the commander, the incident occurred on Wednesday, December 27, 2023.
“Acting on reliable intelligence, the patrol team meticulously extracted the stowaways concealed in the rudder compartment of the vessel, preventing them from exposure to life-threatening situations during the long voyage”.
“The suspects were identified as Ebuka Daniel 29 years old, Enugu state; Samuel Abraham 32 years old, Edo State and Christian Happy 32 years old, Delta state, were discovered to have boarded with the assistance of fishermen for a fee of twenty thousand naira and five thousand naira respectively” he said
He stated that the swift and commendable efforts of the patrol team ensured the timely intervention, avoiding potential security threats associated with unauthorised access.
He said that the stowaways have been disembarked and handed over to the Nigerian Immigration Service for necessary action.
He added that the 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 Ogalla, Chief of the Naval Staff ( CNS).