In a swift maritime security response, the navy has foiled an attempted illegal sea voyage after rescuing three suspected stowaways aboard the merchant vessel MSC STELLA (IMO No. 9279988) off the Lagos Fairway Buoy.
The rescue operation, carried out by personnel of Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT, underscores ongoing efforts to curb irregular migration and strengthen security within Nigeria’s territorial waters.
According to a press release signed by the Director of Naval Information, Captain AA Folorunsho, on Monday, April 20, 2026, the operation was triggered by credible intelligence received from the Western Regional Control Centre (WRCC) at about 5:05 p.m. on Sunday, April 19, 2026.
Following the alert, the quick response team stationed at Tarkwa Bay was immediately deployed, locating the vessel and successfully recovering the three suspects approximately five nautical miles off the Lagos coast.
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Investigations revealed that the individuals had illegally boarded the ship at about 1:00 a.m. on Friday, April 17, 2026, while it was berthed at Tin Can Island Port.
They were identified as Aguru Michael (27), a Beninese national; Soye Monday (25), from Ondo State; and Kentobou Peter (22), from Delta State.
The trio reportedly planned to stow away to Europe.
The navy noted that the interception reflects its sustained operational focus on maritime safety, surveillance, and the disruption of illegal migration routes through Nigerian ports and coastal waters.
It also referenced similar recent interventions, including the rescue of seven persons following a vessel collision in Bayelsa waters and the recovery of three foreign stowaways aboard MT ANATOLIA in March 2026.
The suspects are currently in custody at NNS BEECROFT, where they are undergoing investigation and administrative procedures in line with established legal frameworks.
Reaffirming its mandate, the navy said it remains committed to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain and ensuring that the country’s waters are not used for unlawful transit or criminal activity.
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