Operatives of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft have nabbed 19 suspected stowaways onboard European vessel MT. Kriti Ruby in Lagos.
This was contained in a statement made available by the Base Information Officer ( BIO) Lieutenant Hussaini Ibrahim.
He stated that the arrests was part of the ongoing effort to sanitise the maritime environment of all forms of criminalities in line with the Presidential initiative to upscale the Blue Economy.
“The Base through its Quick Response Team (QRT) Deployed at Atlas Cove COVE on December 19, 2024 where they intercepted 15 stowaways onboard an European bound vessel Mt Kriti Ruby and KRITI.
“Similarly, on December 21, 2024, the QRT intercepted additional 4 stowaways onboard Mt Mcc Yanbu, “ he said.
He disclosed that preliminary investigation revealed that the stowaways boarded the vessels at night and concealed themselves in the rudder compartment while attempting to illegally migrate to Europe.
” Mt. Kriti Ruby raised alarm through the Nigerian Navy Maritime Domain Awareness Facility, Falcon Eye Alignment ( FEA) and requested for immediate interception of the suspected stowaways.
“The FEA successfully vectored NNS Beecroft QRT which led to the interception of 15 suspected stowaways at Lagos fairway buoy.
“On the other hand, the interception of the additional 4 suspects onboard Mt Mcc Yanbu was sequel to credible intelligence availed by NNS Beecroft personnel and deployed for escort duties onboard the vessel, ” he said.
He noted that the prompt response of the Quick Response Team has saved the stowaways from exposure to life threatening situation during the long voyage.
According to him, stowaways pose security threats to vessels and aids smuggling, piracy as well as drug and human trafficking amongst other maritime threats.
He said the NNS Beecroft under the leadership of Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, will continue to maintain credible presence along Lagos waterways and adjoining creeks to ensure a safe and secured maritime environment for socioeconomic activities to thrive.
“The first 15 suspected stowaways were handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service for further investigation and necessary action while the remaining 4 suspected stowaways will be handed over as soon as possible.
