Nigerian Navy Intercepts Stowaways on Cargo Vessel Off Lagos, Sustains Maritime Security Drive
By Onwe Wisdom, Pan Afric Reporters
The Nigerian Navy has intensified its maritime security operations with the interception and rescue of three suspected stowaways aboard a merchant vessel off the Lagos coastline, reinforcing its commitment to safety and surveillance within Nigeria’s territorial waters.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued by AA Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information.
According to the statement, the operation was carried out by personnel of NNS BEECROFT, following credible intelligence from the Western Regional Control Centre, which alerted authorities to suspicious activity aboard the vessel MSC STELLA.
“Acting on credible intelligence received at about 5:05 p.m. on April 19, 2026, the Quick Response Team stationed at Tarkwa Bay was immediately deployed,” the Navy said. “The team successfully intercepted and rescued three suspected stowaways approximately five nautical miles off the Lagos Fairway Buoy.”
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects had illegally boarded the vessel at Tin Can Island Port in the early hours of April 17, with the intention of travelling to Europe undetected.
The suspects were identified as Aguru Michael, a national of the Benin Republic,Soye Monday from Ondo State, and Kentobou Peter from Delta State.
“They reportedly boarded the vessel unlawfully while it was berthed, intending to stow away to Europe,” the statement added.
The Navy noted that the operation underscores its sustained efforts in search and rescue (SAR) missions, as well as its broader strategy to combat irregular migration and maritime crimes.
“This recent rescue effort exemplifies the Nigerian Navy’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives at sea and maintaining maritime security across Nigeria’s waters,” the statement said.
The suspects are currently in the custody of NNS BEECROFT, where they are undergoing further investigation and administrative procedures in line with existing laws.
Reaffirming its resolve, the Navy stressed that it will continue to strengthen surveillance and rapid response mechanisms to curb illegal activities within the nation’s maritime domain.
“We remain dedicated to securing Nigeria’s maritime environment and sustaining effective search and rescue operations,” the statement concluded.
