April 20, 2026
SUNTV Global Channel Report
Operatives of the have intercepted and rescued three suspected stowaways who secretly boarded a merchant vessel in a desperate attempt to travel to Europe.
The incident occurred off the coast of , where naval personnel attached to the Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT acted on intelligence to track and stop the vessel identified as MSC STELLA.
According to a statement issued in Abuja by the Director of Naval Information, Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the operation was triggered after an alert from the Western Regional Control Centre on April 19. A Quick Response Team was immediately deployed from Tarkwa Bay, leading to the successful interception about five nautical miles from the Lagos shoreline.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects illegally boarded the vessel around 1:00 a.m. on April 17 while it was docked at Tin Can Island Port. Authorities say the breach highlights ongoing security gaps at port facilities often exploited by individuals seeking irregular migration routes.
The rescued individuals were identified as Aguru Michael, 27, a citizen of Benin Republic; Soye Monday, 25, from Ondo State; and Kentobou Peter, 22, from Delta State. Officials believe they intended to travel undetected to Europe through the dangerous stowaway route.
The Navy emphasized that the operation reflects its intensified surveillance across Nigeria’s territorial waters, aimed at curbing illegal migration and safeguarding maritime activities.
Folorunsho noted that such stowaway attempts pose serious risks, not only to the individuals involved but also to international shipping operations and maritime security.
He added that the suspects are currently in custody at NNS BEECROFT, where they are undergoing investigation and further administrative procedures in line with existing laws.
The Navy reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining safety and security within Nigeria’s waters, warning that it will continue to clamp down on illegal activities along the nation’s maritime corridors.
SUNTV Global Channel reports that authorities are expected to further review port security measures following the incident.
