The Nigerian Navy showcased five individuals who were arrested as stowaways aboard the vessel MSC Martha in Lagos. The apprehended stowaways have been identified as Effiong Okon (44 years old), Ayewuni Daniel (27), Ajagboma Asiko (29), Adebanjo Ayewumi (23), and Christian Joseph (25).
These stowaways were apprehended by personnel from NNS Beecroft during a patrol operation conducted on August 26. Commodore Kolawole Oguntuga, the commander of NNS Beecroft, released a statement providing details of the operation.
According to the statement, “NNS Beecroft’s patrol team executed a commendable operation resulting in the apprehension of five stowaways aboard a vessel – MSC Martha. The operation was carried out on August 26, 2023, at approximately 2350 hours, following a reliable tip-off.”
Oguntuga revealed that the stowaways were taken into custody while attempting to leave the country illegally through the vessel en route to Spain. The arrest took place in the vicinity of the Lagos anchorage.
Among the possessions confiscated from the stowaways were three mobile phones, personal effects, and a sum of N7,900 in cash.
Oguntuga further informed that the stowaways have been handed over to the Nigerian Immigration Service for further investigation. He emphasized that the swift and efficient response of the NNS Beecroft patrol team reflects the Navy’s dedication to ensuring the security and integrity of the country’s maritime borders, as directed by Vice Admiral EI Ogalla, the Chief of the Naval Staff.
The incident underscores the ongoing efforts by Nigerian security forces to prevent illegal activities and maintain the safety of the nation’s maritime domain.
