The Commander, NNS Beecroft and Maritime Component Commander Of Operation Awatse, Commodore Kolawole Oguntuga, disclosed this in a statement signed by the base Information Officer, NNS Beecroft, Sub-Lieutenant H. A Collins, on Friday.
Oguntuga, in the statement, disclosed that the stowaways were arrested on December 27, 2023.
The suspects include Ebuka Daniel, 29-year-old, from Enugu state, Samuel Abraham, 32-year-old, from Edo State and Christian Happy, 32-year-old, from Delta state.
The statement read, “Under the aegis of Commodore Kolawole Olumide Oguntuga, Commander Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT and Maritime, Component Commander Operation AWATSE, successfully intercepted and apprehended three stowaways attempting illegal migration on the Tanker Vessel FRONT Altiers at Lagos roadstead, bound for Europe.
“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 individuals 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 N20.000 and N5.000 respectively.”
Oguntuga also disclosed that the stowaways boarded the tanker with the assistance of fishermen for a fee of N20.000 and N5.000 respectively.
“The swift and commendable efforts of the patrol team ensured the timely intervention, avoiding potential security threats associated with unauthorized access.”
Oguntuga stated that the stowaways have been handed to the Nigerian Immigration Service for necessary action.
“The stowaways have been disembarked and handed over to the NIS for necessary action.
“This 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 Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral EI Ogalla,
