PeakNews Online
Lagos, Nigeria – In a series of operations last week, the Nigerian Navy successfully rescued eight female victims of human trafficking, saved two fishermen from drowning, and apprehended eight male stowaways.
According to a statement released on Tuesday by Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, Director of Information, Nigerian Navy personnel also thwarted a sea robbery attempt during this period.
Anti-Human Trafficking Operation
On July 9, 2024, the Quick Response Team of the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base in Badagry intercepted a wooden passenger boat en route to the Benin Republic. The boat carried eight women aged 18-23 who were determined to be victims of human trafficking. The victims were handed over to the National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) as investigations continue to identify the trafficker and syndicate involved.
Sea Robbery Foiled
On July 10, 2024, personnel from the Forward Operating Base in Ibaka, Akwa Ibom State, intercepted suspected sea robbers attempting to attack a supply vessel along the Uyenghe River in Mbo Local Government Area. The suspects engaged in a firefight with naval troops but were forced to retreat into the creeks, effectively foiling the robbery.
Fishermen Rescued
On July 12, 2024, Nigerian Navy personnel from the Forward Operating Base in Lekki rescued two fishermen near the Lekki Anchorage Area. The fishermen’s boat had capsized due to rough seas, and they were found about 10 nautical miles from the Dangote Refinery in Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area, Lagos State.
Stowaways Arrested
On July 13, 2024, the Nigerian Navy Ship Beecroft patrol team arrested eight suspected stowaways in two speedboats attempting to board the MV Northernlight along the Lagos Channel. Five of the suspects admitted they were trying to travel abroad. The suspects and their speedboats have been handed over to the Nigerian Immigration Service for further investigation. NNS Beecroft has arrested 33 stowaways between January and July 2024.
Statement from the Naval Command
The Nigerian Navy, under the leadership of Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of Nigeria’s maritime domain. Commodore A. Adams-Aliu urged all operators and stakeholders to support efforts in maintaining secure waters for legitimate economic activities and warned against any illegal activities within Nigeria’s territorial waters.
Joe
