Nigerian Navy Transfers Rescued Stowaways to Immigration Authorities
The Nigerian Navy has handed over three suspected Ghanaian stowaways to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) following their rescue from a merchant vessel in Lagos.
The operation was carried out by personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT (NNS BEECROFT), as part of ongoing efforts to combat illegal migration and strengthen maritime security.
Stowaways Discovered on MT ANATOLIA
According to the Commander of NNS BEECROFT, Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, the suspects were discovered aboard the vessel MT ANATOLIA while it was docked at the Dangote Terminal in Lagos State.
The stowaways were found hidden inside the ship’s rudder compartment on Saturday.
They were safely evacuated and taken to NNS BEECROFT for:
- Preliminary investigation
- Identity verification
- Security profiling
Identities and Background of the Suspects
Initial investigations identified the three individuals as:
- Armah Peter (26)
- Amisah Daniel (22)
- Amoh Michael (25)
All are nationals of Ghana.
Further findings revealed that the suspects had previously traveled to Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, where they reportedly lived and worked as fishermen for about a year.
Attempted Illegal Migration to Europe
Investigations showed that the stowaways gained access to the vessel using a canoe, hiding in the rudder compartment with the intention of illegally traveling to Europe.
After spending several hours at sea, they mistakenly believed they had reached their destination and alerted the ship’s crew, leading to their discovery and rescue.
Immigration to Handle Repatriation Process
The Nigerian Navy confirmed that the suspects have been handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service for further action.
The NIS is expected to:
- Conduct necessary legal and administrative procedures
- Liaise with the Ghanaian Embassy
- Facilitate their eventual repatriation
Navy Warns Against Illegal Maritime Travel
Commodore Adams-Aliu warned against the dangers of illegal migration via sea routes, urging parents, guardians, and community leaders to educate youths.
He stressed that such risky journeys pose serious threats to life and extend beyond Nigeria to other West African nations.
Strengthening Maritime Security in Nigeria
The commander reaffirmed the commitment of NNS BEECROFT to the strategic vision of the Chief of Naval Staff, Idi Abbas.
This includes:
- Protecting Nigeria’s maritime domain
- Combating illegal migration and trafficking
- Supporting joint security operations
- Ensuring national stability and sovereignty
What is a Stowaway?
A stowaway is defined as a person who secretly boards a vessel, aircraft, or vehicle to travel without authorization or payment, often risking their life in dangerous conditions.
The successful rescue and handover of the three Ghanaian stowaways highlights ongoing efforts by Nigerian security agencies to tackle illegal migration and improve maritime safety.
It also underscores the urgent need for awareness about the dangers of unauthorized sea travel, especially among youths across West Africa.
