The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft has handed over five suspected stowaways rescued from a merchant vessel to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), as part of ongoing efforts to combat illegal migration and strengthen maritime security.
The handover took place on Monday, June 22, 2026, following the rescue and preliminary investigation of the suspects who were discovered aboard MT CHINAFRIE HAPPINESS.
According to the Navy, the five men were found concealed in the rudder compartment of the vessel on June 17, 2026. They were subsequently evacuated safely and taken to NNS Beecroft for profiling and further investigation.
The suspects were identified as Segun Samuel Boyewa, 31; Kingsley Chukwu, 43; Joseph Judge, 33; Moses Aletor, 24; and Abdullahi Danlami, 31.
Investigations revealed that the men boarded the vessel while it was berthed at Tin Can Island Port in Lagos, allegedly intending to travel illegally to India without authorization.
The Navy explained that stowaways are individuals who secretly board vessels with the intention of travelling to another country illegally, often exposing themselves to grave danger and creating security concerns for maritime operators and destination countries.
NNS Beecroft said the transfer of the suspects to the Nigeria Immigration Service underscores the strong collaboration among security agencies in tackling illegal migration, human smuggling, and other maritime-related crimes.
The Navy also used the opportunity to caution parents, guardians and community leaders against encouraging or tolerating attempts by youths to embark on dangerous overseas journeys through illegal means.
It stressed that stowing away on ships poses serious risks, including injury, death, arrest and prosecution under relevant immigration and maritime laws.
Reaffirming its commitment to maritime security, NNS Beecroft said it would continue to support the vision of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, by maintaining a highly motivated and professional naval force capable of protecting Nigeria’s maritime interests and contributing to national security.
The Navy further urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities around ports, jetties and waterfronts to relevant authorities.
