The Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT’s patrol team has apprehended eight stowaways on the container vessel Natal, which was bound for Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire.
This was made known in a press statement by the base information officer, Sub Lieutenant Hapinness Collins.
According to Collins, the stowaways were intercepted at 0840 hours, on Friday, 3rd November 2023 by the patrol team.
He said, “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 an illegal voyage, onboard a container vessel NATAL heading to Abidjan.”
The stowaways, who were attempting to exit the country without proper authorization, had concealed themselves within the rudder compartment of the vessel.
Collins added, “The timely intervention of the patrol team prevented the individuals from being exposed to a 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 individuals arrested were identified as follows:
Jerry Benjamin, 22 years old, from Delta State
Ben Tony, 19 years old, from Delta State
Victory Ekemele, 16 years old, from Delta State
Ike Destiny, 17 years old, from Delta State
Ebuka Solomon, 25 years old, from Enugu State
Christian Eze, 26 years old, from Enugu State
James Vincent, 25 years old, from Edo State
David Abamiyo, 27 years old, from Ondo State
The Navy handed over the stowaways to the Nigeria Immigration Service for further necessary action.
