Navy arrests four stowaways who were hiding on a ship bound for Dubai

The NNS BEECROFT team found the stowaways on Monday while on patrol at the Lagos anchorage.
Four stowaways who were travelling to Dubai on a cargo ship (TEME EXPRESS) and attempting to flee the country illegally have been taken into custody.

The NNS BEECROFT team apprehended the stowaways on Monday while on patrol at the Lagos anchorage, according to a statement released by the Navy on Wednesday.

The stowaways were discovered with food packs and satchet water within the ship’s rudder compartment, according to Kolawole Oguntuga, the commander of the ship.

According to Oguntuga, the Falcon Eye Alignment, a marine domain awareness facility, was instrumental in giving intelligence that resulted in their apprehension.

READ ALSO: Taliban prevent Afghan women from travelling to Dubai to study

“After obtaining information from the maritime domain awareness facility, tactical teams were sent to the vessel at Lagos Anchorage,” he said.

“After seeing activity inside the rudder compartment upon arrival, the teams boarded the ship, found, and freed the four stowaways.”

“A bag containing snacks and another polybag containing sachet water were discovered with the stowaways.”

The captain added that the stowaways put themselves in danger by being in a confined area for a prolonged period of time and that they had been turned over to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) in compliance with established practise.

According to Oguntuga, “They also pose numerous security risks to the crew, which could have disastrous effects on the country’s reputation.”

In addition, he restated the Navy’s dedication to maintaining maritime security in support of Nigeria’s economic development.