The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft has handed over three suspected stowaways, rescued from a merchant vessel, MT Anatolia, to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) on April 1, 2026.
The suspects, identified as Armah Peter (26), Amisah Daniel (22), and Amoh Michael (25), are Ghanaian nationals who concealed themselves in the rudder compartment of the vessel with the intention of travelling illegally to Europe.
The vessel, which was berthed at Dangote Terminal, Lagos, had initially set sail from Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, where the suspects had been living and working as fishermen. They gained access to the vessel with the aid of a canoe and were discovered on March 28, 2026, after alerting the crew.
The handover ceremony is part of ongoing collaborative efforts between security agencies to curb illegal migration and enhance maritime safety and security. The NIS will transfer the suspects to the Ghanaian Embassy after proper judicial procedures.
The Commander of NNS Beecroft, Commodore A Adams-Aliu, emphasized the importance of advising youths against attempting to board sea-going vessels illegally, citing the risks involved.
He reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to safeguarding the country’s maritime interests and contributing to joint operations in defence of national sovereignty and internal stability.