Nigerian Navy Intercepts Three Stowaways Off Lagos Coast

On April 19, the Nigerian Navy, through its spokesperson Abiodun Folorunsho, announced the arrest of three individuals suspected of attempting illegal migration to Europe by hiding aboard the MSC Stella, a merchant vessel off the Lagos coastline. The interception occurred five nautical miles offshore, following intelligence received by the Western Region Control Centre.

The suspects, identified as Aguru Michael, 27, from the Benin Republic, and Kentob Peter, 22, from Delta State, were believed to have boarded the vessel without authorization in the early hours of Friday. The Navy's quick response team, based at Tarkwa Bay, deployed to the scene and safely removed the suspects from the ship, thwarting their attempt at irregular migration.

The suspects are currently in naval custody as investigations and administrative procedures are ongoing. The Navy reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria's territorial waters and tackling illegal activities, particularly unauthorized maritime migration.