Five youths have been apprehended while attempting to escape what they referred to as the harsh economic conditions in Nigeria.
The group of stowaways was arrested aboard the vessel MRC NARTHA and has been identified as Efiong Okon (44), Ayewuni Daniel (27), Ajagboma Asiko (29), Adebanjo Ayewumi (23), and Christian Joseph (25).
The arrests took place on August 26, 2023, by naval officers from the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT at the Lagos anchorage.
Commodore Kolawole Olumide Oguntuga, the Commander of NNS BEECROFT, confirmed the incident, explaining that the five stowaways were removed from the vessel by a naval patrol team dispatched to ensure security at the Lagos anchorage.
He said the operation was carried out at about 11.50 pm on August 26, 2023, following a tip-off.
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“Their arrest took place within the vicinity of the Lagos anchorage, while they were attempting to clandestinely exit the country via the vessel.
“Found in their possession are three mobile phones, personal effects and cash sum of N7,900. These confiscated items are now under official custody as evidence in the ongoing investigation.
“The NNS BEECROFT patrol team’s swift and efficient response underscore the Navy’s dedication under the watch of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral EI Ogalla, towards maintaining the security and integrity of the country’s maritime borders,” he added.
Commodore Oguntuga said the apprehended stowaways were under the custody of the navy, insisting that the Nigerian Navy was cooperating with relevant authorities to prosecute the suspects.
