The Nigerian Navy has intercepted and rescued three suspected stowaways aboard a merchant vessel, MSC STELLA, off the Lagos Fairway Buoy, reinforcing its commitment to maritime security and search and rescue (SAR) operations.
The operation was carried out by personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT following credible intelligence from the Western Regional Control Centre (WRCC) at about 5:05 p.m. on Sunday, April 19, 2026. Acting promptly, the Quick Response Team (QRT) stationed at Tarkwa Bay was deployed to the vessel’s location, approximately five nautical miles off the Lagos coastline.
Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, confirmed that the team successfully rescued the three suspects during the operation.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the individuals—Aguru Michael (27), a national of the Benin Republic; Soye Monday (25) from Ondo State; and Kentobou Peter (22) from Delta State—illegally boarded the vessel at about 1:00 a.m. on Friday, April 17, while it was berthed at Tin Can Island Port. The suspects reportedly intended to stow away to Europe.
The Navy noted that the operation is part of its sustained efforts to combat irregular migration and ensure safety within Nigeria’s maritime domain.
It also highlighted previous successful SAR missions, including the rescue of seven individuals following a collision involving a Tantita Patrol boat and a wooden vessel in Bayelsa, as well as the rescue and handover of three foreign stowaways aboard MT ANATOLIA in March 2026.
The suspects are currently in the custody of NNS BEECROFT, where they are undergoing further investigation and administrative procedures in line with the law.
The Nigerian Navy reaffirmed its dedication to safeguarding lives at sea and maintaining robust maritime security operations across the nation’s waters.
