Navy arrests nine stowaways ‘hiding in rudder compartment’ of Spain-bound ship

Operatives of the Nigerian Navy ship (NNS) Beecroft have arrested nine stowaways attempting to migrate onboard a tanker vessel (LYSIAS VALETTA) to Spain.

NAN reports that Kolawole Oguntuga, commander of the NNS Beecroft, spoke on Monday.

He said the stowaways were apprehended on Saturday.

Oguntuga said they were handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) after an established protocol for action.

He said the nine stowaways hid in a rudder compartment of the vessel but were found based on credible intelligence.

He gave their name as Christian Ikechukwu, 32 from Imo; Dennis Commander, 36, (Bayelsa); Samson Army, 24, (Bayelsa); Aribo Asiko, 26 (Ondo) and Shina Folorunsho, 36, (Ekiti).

Others are Wisdom Egharevba, 26 from Edo; Okore Precious, 24, (Delta); Ndukwe Sunday, 25, (Enugu) and Agor Joseph, 57, (Delta).

Oguntuga noted that the arrest and handover of the stowaways emphasised the Nigerian Navy’s relentless commitment to its duties under the leadership of Emmanuel Ogalla, the chief of the naval staff (CNS).

“The proactive detection and extraction of these individuals are commendable, preventing them from life-threatening situations during such extended voyage within confined spaces,” NAN quoted Oguntuga as saying.

“Additionally, this action averts potential security threats to the vessel and its crew as well as mitigating embarrassing situations.

“We will continue to reinforce our dedication towards creating a secure maritime environment for the nation’s economic prosperity.”