In a series of operations conducted between July 9 and July 13, 2024, the Nigerian Navy has made significant strides in maintaining security within the nation’s maritime domain.
During this period, Navy units rescued eight female victims of human trafficking, saved two drowning fishermen, and arrested eight male stowaways.
On July 9, 2024, the Quick Response Team of the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base Badagry intercepted a wooden passenger boat carrying eight young women, aged between 18 and 23, en route to the Benin Republic.
Upon interrogation, it was discovered that they were victims of human trafficking. The victims have been handed over to the National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for further investigation to identify the trafficking syndicate.
In another incident on July 10, 2024, personnel from the Forward Operating Base Ibaka in Akwa Ibom State thwarted a sea robbery attempt on a supply vessel along the Uyenghe River in Mbo Local Government Area.
The suspected robbers engaged in a firefight with the Navy troops before retreating into the creeks. The attempted robbery was successfully foiled.
On July 12, 2024, the Forward Operating Base Lekki personnel rescued two fishermen from drowning near the Lekki Anchorage Area, approximately 10 nautical miles from the Dangote Refinery in Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area. The fishermen’s boat had capsized due to rough sea conditions.
In a separate incident on July 13, 2024, the Nigerian Navy Ship Beecroft patrol team arrested eight suspected stowaways attempting to board the MV Northernlight through its rudder compartment while it was underway along the Lagos Channel. Five of the suspects admitted their intention to travel abroad by stowing away.
The suspects, along with their speedboats, have been handed over to the Nigerian Immigration Service for further investigation. The NNS Beecroft has arrested a total of 33 stowaways between January and July 2024.
The Nigerian Navy, under the leadership of Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, continues to ensure the safety and security of Nigerian waters, urging all maritime operators and stakeholders to refrain from illegal activities within Nigeria’s territorial waters.
LV