Naval operatives arrest suspected stowaways in Lagos
The Nigerian Navy has arrested three suspected stowaways who allegedly concealed themselves in the propeller compartment of a merchant vessel, MV Maersk Calabar, in an attempt to travel illegally by sea. The suspects were arrested by operatives of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft on Monday, September 14, 2026, while the vessel was underway around […]
The Nigerian Navy seized three suspected stowaways, Isaiah Oyetayo, 30; Goddey Ajinde Samson, 26; and Popoola Felix, 28, who were hiding in the propeller compartment of the merchant ship MV Maersk Calabar. The arrests occurred on September 14, 2026, as the ship sailed near the Lagos Fairway Buoy. The suspects confessed that they were fleeing famine and adversity in search of better opportunities overseas.
They were handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service for further examination. The Nigerian Navy Ship Beecroft's Quick Reaction Team apprehended the suspects upon receiving a tip-off from the Western Regional Control Centre. According to the Navy, preliminary investigations found that the suspects initially boarded the vessel at Apapa Port using a canoe and hid in the propeller compartment once the ship was underway.
The Navy emphasized the importance of their collaboration with other agencies to combat illegal migration and enhance maritime security, warning that unauthorized access to seagoing vessels can endanger individuals and jeopardize the safety and security of vessels, crew, and maritime operations.
Written by urgent.news from Daily Trust's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
