Nigerian Navy Decries Menace of Stowaways, Apprehends 75 in Lagos Axis
The Nigerian Navy (NN) has expressed serious concern over the increasing number of stowaways found on ships in Lagos waters.
In a statement signed by Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, Director of Information for the Nigerian Navy, on Wednesday, in Abuja.
He said stowaways, as per the Convention on Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic (FAL Convention), as individuals who secretly board a ship or hide in cargo without permission from the shipowner, captain, or any other authorized personnel.
The statement read in part: “The Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, has implemented a strategic directive to address this growing threat.
“The NN deployed advanced Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) equipment to guide Quick Response Teams (QRT) across Nigerian territorial waters. These efforts have resulted in the apprehension of approximately 75 stowaways between August 2023 and April 2024.
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“The stowaways were discovered from from the following vessels MSC MARTHA CHARMINAR Panama, GWANGZHOU HIGHWAY Panama, Natal, CONTAINER VESSEL TEME, GRANDE Guinea, MT UOG Constantine, FRONT ALTIERS, MT Chip, MT ADVANTAGE Love, MT LYSIAS Valletta and MT PRINCESS Erin.”
The Navy Spokesman said all apprehended stowaways were handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) in accordance with the established protocols for further necessary action.
The Navy also released a table detailing specific instances of stowaway apprehension during this period. Details include the date, vessel name, number of stowaways apprehended, location, and remarks.
The service highlighted the dangers of stowing away, emphasizing the severe legal consequences and significant health risks involved. These risks include exposure to harsh weather conditions, lack of food and water, potential injuries, and even death.
The Navy strongly discourages Nigerian youths from attempting such perilous journeys.
He urged the public to disseminate this information. The Navy aims to raise awareness about the dangers of stowing away and deter individuals from undertaking such risky ventures.
By PRNigeria
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