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The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft has efficiently intercepted 19 suspected stowaways making an attempt emigrate illegally to Europe aboard two vessels in Lagos State.
The suspects, who reportedly boarded the ships below the quilt of darkness, hid themselves within the rudder compartments to keep away from detection.
First Interception: MT KRITI RUBY
In a press release issued on Saturday, Lieutenant Hussaini Ibrahim, the Base Info Officer, disclosed that 15 of the stowaways had been apprehended following an alarm raised by MT KRITI RUBY by way of the Nigerian Navy Maritime Area Consciousness Facility, Falcon Eye Alignment.
The assertion detailed how the Falcon Eye Alignment vectored the NNS BEECROFT Fast Response Staff (QRT) to intercept the suspects close to the Lagos fairway buoy.
Second Interception: MT MCC YANBU
A further 4 stowaways had been intercepted on board MT MCC YANBU primarily based on intelligence supplied by NNS BEECROFT personnel assigned to escort the vessel.
Immediate Response Prevented Life-Threatening Dangers
Ibrahim highlighted the vital position of the Fast Response Staff in averting potential hazard to the stowaways, noting the life-threatening dangers posed by lengthy voyages in rudder compartments.
“The impact of stowaways on maritime operations can’t be overemphasized because it poses safety threats to vessels and facilitates smuggling, piracy, drug trafficking, and human trafficking,” Ibrahim said.
Dedication to Maritime Safety
Below the management of Chief of the Naval Employees, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, the NNS BEECROFT stays dedicated to sustaining a reputable presence alongside Lagos waterways and adjoining creeks to make sure a protected maritime setting conducive to socioeconomic actions.
Handover to Immigration Authorities
The primary 15 suspects had been handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service, Lagos State Port/Marine Command, Apapa, on Friday, December 20, 2024, for additional investigation and authorized motion. The remaining 4 suspects are anticipated to be handed over quickly.
This operation underscores the Navy’s unwavering dedication to combating maritime threats and guaranteeing the safety of Nigeria’s waterways
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