Naval officers from the Nigerian Navy Ship, BEECROFT, have apprehended three stowaways on a vessel bound for Europe.

The suspects – Ebuka Daniel, 29; Samuel Abraham, 32, and Christian Happy, 32, are indigenes of Enugu, Edo and Delta states respectively.

The suspects said they paid N20,000 to an unknown boat operator who ferried them to where the ship was anchored, preparatory to sailing out of Nigeria.

“We sneaked onboard the ship without the knowledge of the crew. Unfortunately for us, our presence was noticed by one of the crew who raised the alarm that led to our arrest,” Daniel said.

The commander of NNS BEECROFT, Commodore Kolawole Oguntuga, confirmed the arrest, adding that men of the command apprehended the three stowaways attempting illegal migration through the Tanker Vessel Front Atliers at the Lagos road stead during their patrol.

He said the incident occurred on December 27, 2023.

“This 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 EI Ogalla, the Chief of Naval Staff. Attached are images depicting the successful interception, arrest and handover of the three stowaways,” he added.