NNS Beecroft Intercepts 19 Suspected Stowaways Onboard Europe Bound Ships
...Hands Over Suspects To Marine Immigration
The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft ongoing effort to sanitise the maritime environment of all forms of criminalities and in support of the Presidential initiative to upscale the Blue Economy yielded another positive result.
The Base through its Quick Response Team (QRT) deployed at ATLAS COVE
on 19 December 2024 intercepted 15 stowaways onboard an European bound vessel MT KRITI RUBY.
Similarly, on 21 December 2024, the QRT intercepted additional 4 stowaways onboard MT MCC YANBU, a statement by Lieutenant Hussaini Ibrahim, Base Information Officer Nigerian Navy Ship Beecroft disclosed in a statement.
According to him, 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 and requested for immediate interception of the suspected stowaways.
He said the Falcon Eye Alignment 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 deployed for escort duties onboard the vessel. The prompt response of the Quick Response Team has saved the stowaways from exposure to life threatening situation during the long voyage.
“The effect of stowaways on maritime operations can not be overemphasized as it poses security threats to vessels and aids smuggling, piracy as well as drug and human trafficking amongst other maritime threats.
“The NNS BEECROFT under the leadership of Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel aikechukwu Ogalla, Admiralty Medal 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 on Friday 20 December 2024, to the Nigeria Immigration Service, Lagos State seaport/Marine Command, Apapa for further investigation and necessary action. While the remaining 4 suspected stowaways will be handed over as soon as possible.