In a dramatic operation, the Nigerian Navy has thwarted an illegal migration attempt, rescuing 19 stowaways aboard vessels bound for Europe.
The stowaways, who had secretly boarded the ships under the cover of darkness, hid in the rudder compartments in a bid to make their way across the Mediterranean Sea.
The operation began when the Falcon Eye Maritime Surveillance System detected unusual activity in Lagos waters. The Nigerian Navy quickly acted on the intelligence, leading to the interception of the first 15 stowaways aboard the MT Kriti Ruby.
Lieutenant Hussaini Ibrahim, the Base Information Officer, confirmed the successful operation on December 20, 2024. He stated that the suspects had boarded the vessels at night, seeking to illegally migrate to Europe. “They concealed themselves in the rudder compartment, hoping to escape detection during the long journey,” Ibrahim explained.
The Nigerian Navy’s response was swift, with the Falcon Eye Alignment, a sophisticated maritime surveillance system, guiding the NNS Beecroft Quick Response Team (QRT) to the location where the stowaways were discovered. The operation took place near the Lagos Fairway Buoy.
Following the interception, the Navy immediately took action to ensure the safety of the individuals. “Our Quick Response Team’s prompt action prevented these individuals from facing potentially life-threatening conditions during their journey,” Ibrahim added.
In addition to the first 15 stowaways, the Navy intercepted another four suspects aboard the MT MCC Yanbu. This was made possible through credible intelligence provided by the Navy personnel who were on escort duty for the vessel. The stowaways had attempted to sneak aboard the vessel in a similar manner, concealing themselves in the ship’s hidden compartments.
“The timely interception prevented the stowaways from suffering inhumane conditions. The risks of stowing away are enormous, both for the individuals and the maritime industry,” Ibrahim noted, highlighting the dangers of such illegal activities.
The effects of stowaways on maritime operations cannot be underestimated. Ibrahim warned that their presence aboard vessels could endanger the crew and other passengers. “Stowaways pose a significant security threat to ships, including the risk of piracy, smuggling, and even human trafficking,” he added.
The Navy’s quick response also helped to prevent the illegal migration from escalating into a more dangerous situation. “These stowaways were attempting to escape dire conditions at home, but the risks they faced were life-threatening. They are fortunate that the Nigerian Navy was able to prevent this from becoming a tragedy,” Ibrahim said.
The intercepted suspects were immediately handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) on December 20, 2024, for further investigation. The NIS, along with other agencies, will now take the necessary legal action to address the illegal migration attempt.
In the case of the four additional stowaways aboard the MT MCC Yanbu, Ibrahim confirmed that they would also be handed over to the authorities once the vessel docks. “We are working closely with all relevant agencies to ensure that the remaining suspects face the appropriate legal processes,” he said.
The Nigerian Navy’s actions reflect its ongoing commitment to maintaining security in Nigeria’s waterways. Under the leadership of Vice Admiral Emmanuel Aikechukwu Ogalla, the Navy continues to patrol the nation’s maritime borders to prevent illegal activities and ensure a secure environment for both commercial and civilian vessels.
“The Nigerian Navy is determined to maintain a visible presence in the country’s waters to safeguard our maritime environment. This is critical for the protection of our national security and for the safety of the public,” Ibrahim concluded.
As the stowaways face further investigation, the operation sends a clear message to those attempting illegal migration through Nigerian waters: the Navy is vigilant and ready to take action.
