The Base, through its Quick Response Team (QRT) Deployed at Atlas Cove on December 19, intercepted 15 stowaways onboard an European bound vessel, MT KRITI RUBY.
Similarly, on December 21, 2024, the QRT intercepted additional four stowaways onboard MT MCC YANBU.
The Guardian gathered 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.
Base Information Officer Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT, Lieutenant Hussaini Ibrahim, who confirmed the development in a statement, said MT KRITI RUBY raised the alarm through the Nigerian Navy Maritime Domain Awareness Facility, Falcon Eye Alignment and requested for immediate interception of the suspected stowaways.
According to him, 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 four suspects onboard MT MCC YANBU was sequel to credible intelligence availed to 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,” he said
According to him, the effect of stowaways on maritime operations can not be over-emphasised as it poses security threats to vessels and aids smuggling, piracy as well as drug and human trafficking amongst other maritime threats.
He stressed that 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.
According to him, the first 15 suspected stowaways were handed over on Friday, December 20, 2024 to the Nigeria Immigration Service, Lagos State Port/Marine Command, Apapa for further investigation and necessary action, while the remaining four suspected stowaways will be handed over to them as soon as possible.
