NNS BEECROFT:  Patrol Team Nabs 8 Stowaways Aboard Abidjan Bound Container Vessel

In a remarkable display of sustained maritime security, the Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT’s patrol team has stalled plans of some individuals from embarking on illegal voyage, onboard a container vessel MV NATAL sailing to Abidjan.

According to a statement from Sub-Lieutenant Happiness Collins, Base Information Officer , Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT , disclosed that at approximately 0840 hours on Friday 3rd November 2023 the patrol team, acting on reliable intelligence boarded the vessel at Lagos Anchorage and apprehended eight stowaways attempting to illegally exit the country through the vessel.

With commendable resolve by the patrol team under the aegis of Commodore Kolawole Olumide Oguntuga, Commander NNS BEECROFT, the patrol team meticulously extracted eight stowaways who had concealed themselves inside the rudder compartment of the vessel .

She affirmed that the brave efforts and timely intervention of the patrol team prevented the individuals from being exposed to life threatening situation in such a confined compartment for the long voyage as well as other security threats associated with unauthorized access to such facilities.

The  Commander , she stated identified the individuals as: Jerry Benjamin, 22 years old, Ben Tony, 19 years old, Victory Ekemele, 16 years old and Ike Destiny, 17 years old, all from Delta state, Ebuka Solomon, 25 years old and Christian Eze, 26 years old both from Enugu state.

Others are – James Vincent, 25 years old from Edo state and David Abamiyo, 27 years old, from Ondo state.

She also noted that 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 and it also underscores the dedication of the Nigerian Navy under the esteemed leadership of Vice Admiral EI Ogalla, Chief of the Naval Staff, towards ensuring the nation’s maritime environment is conducive for legitimate business to thrive for the economic prosperity of our nation.