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Akinwande Soji-Ojo
The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft’s Patrol Team has arrested three stowaways onboard a tanker vessel, Front Altiers, bound for Europe at Lagos roadstead.
The Commander, NNS Beecroft and Maritime Component Commander of Operation Awatse, Commodore Kolawole Oguntuga, disclosed this in a statement signed by the NNS Beecroft base Information Officer, Sub-Lieutenant H. A. Collins, on Friday.
According to the Oguntuga, the stowaways were arrested on Wednesday, December 27, 2023.
The individuals are Ebuka Daniel, 29 years old, from Enugu State; Samuel Abraham, 32 years old, from Edo State, and Christian Happy, 32 years old, from Delta State.
“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 were discovered to have boarded 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 unauthorised access,” he said.
Oguntuga added that the stowaways have been handed to the Nigerian Immigration Service for necessary action.
He added that the 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 Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, Chief of the Naval Staff ( CNS).