Five young men found onboard a vessel, MRC NARTHA have been arrested by the Nigerian Navy.
The stowaways who said they are trying to flee from the “harsh economic reality” in Nigeria, have been identified as Efiong Okon (44), Ayewuni Daniel (27), Ajagboma Asiko (29), Adebanjo Ayewumi (23) and Christian Joseph (25).
Commander NNS BEECROFT, Commodore Kolawole Olumide Oguntuga, who confirmed the arrest said the five stowaways were evacuated from the vessel by a naval patrol team deployed to provide security at the Lagos anchorage.
Oguntuga said the operation was carried out at about 11.50 pm on August 26, 2023, following a tip-off. He said;
“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.”