Nigerian Navy hands over 9 suspected stowaways to Immigration
The Nigerian Navy Ship NNS Beecroft has transferred nine suspected stowaways to the Nigeria Immigration Service following their rescue from the merchant vessel MT EVGENIA on Friday.
According to a statement from Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, the handover is part of ongoing efforts by security agencies to address illegal migration and enhance maritime safety.
The group of suspects was discovered on August 19, 2026, hidden in the propeller compartment of the MT EVGENIA. They were subsequently evacuated and taken to NNS Beecroft for initial investigation and profiling.
Preliminary findings identified the individuals as Thompson Vincent (23), Emmanuel Philip (24), Tobi Olalekan (32), Omotayo Adebowale (43), Abdullahi Idowu (21), Tunde Mustapha (19), Jamiu Ismaila (25), Ibrahim Alabi (30), and Christian Kadiri (22). Investigators determined that the group had boarded the vessel while it was docked at Flour Mills Jetty in Apapa, with the intent to travel illegally to Europe.
Authorities are urging parents and guardians to discourage youth from attempting to board maritime vessels unlawfully, highlighting the risks associated with these actions that extend beyond Nigeria to countries along the West Coast of Africa.
Commodore Adams-Aliu reaffirmed the commitment of NNS Beecroft to fulfill the mission set by the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a professional naval force to protect Nigeria’s maritime interests and contribute to national security efforts.
