Nigerian Navy Intercepts Stowaways in Lagos Waters

On March 19, 2023, the Nigerian Navy ship NN Beecroft intercepted two stowaways during a routine maritime security check in Lagos waters. The suspects, identified as Abdullahi Yakubu, 36, a repeat offender, and Omoniyi Afotona, 25, were discovered hiding in the rudder compartment of the merchant vessel MV Seaspan Lahore.

The vessel was already underway when the hidden individuals were detected. Following their safe removal from the compartment, the suspects were taken to the naval base for preliminary questioning.

The Nigerian Navy then transferred them to the Nigerian Immigration Service for further investigation. Commodore Adam Aliyu, an official at the Nigerian Navy ship Beecroft, confirmed the incident, emphasizing the importance of maritime security in the region.