NIS to Transfer Arrested Ghanaian Stowaways to Embassy After Judicial Process
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) is preparing to transfer three Ghanaian stowaways, who were apprehended by the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT, to the Ghanaian Embassy. This action will occur only after all proper judicial procedures have been meticulously followed, ensuring due process is observed in this case of illegal migration.
Discovery and Arrest of the Stowaways
The suspects were discovered on Saturday, March 28, 2026, while hiding in the rudder compartment of the vessel MT ANATOLIA. The ship was berthed at the Dangote Terminal in Lagos at the time of the discovery. Following their detection, the individuals were safely evacuated from the dangerous compartment and transported to NNS BEECROFT for initial investigation and comprehensive profiling.
Initial findings have identified the three male suspects as Armah Peter, aged 26, Amisah Daniel, aged 22, and Amoh Michael, aged 25. All are confirmed to be nationals of Ghana, and their arrest highlights ongoing issues with illegal migration routes from West Africa to Europe.
Background and Journey of the Suspects
Investigations revealed a detailed backstory for the suspects. They had previously traveled from Ghana to Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, where they reportedly lived and engaged in fishing activities for approximately one year. Seeking to reach Europe illegally, they utilized a canoe to gain access to the rudder compartment of MT ANATOLIA before the vessel departed Ivorian waters.
After spending several hours at sea, the stowaways mistakenly believed they had arrived at their intended destination in Europe. They then alerted the vessel’s crew, which led to their immediate detection and subsequent rescue by naval authorities. This incident underscores the perilous nature of such illegal journeys and the risks involved.
Handover and Statements from Naval Commander
During the formal handover of the suspects to the NIS in Apapa, Lagos, Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, the Commander of NNS BEECROFT, provided critical details. He confirmed that the suspects were rescued from the merchant vessel MT ANATOLIA and emphasized that this handover is part of ongoing collaborative efforts between various security agencies.
"In this case, the NIS will be responsible for transferring these suspects to the Ghanaian Embassy after proper judicial procedures," Commodore Adams-Aliu stated. He further highlighted the importance of such cooperation in curbing illegal migration and enhancing maritime safety and security across the region.
Adams-Aliu also issued a stern warning to parents, guardians, and authority figures within society, urging them to advise their youths against attempting to board sea-going vessels illegally. "As we can see today, this advice extends beyond Nigerian society to neighbouring countries in the West Coast of Africa," he remarked, pointing to the transnational nature of the issue.
Commitment to Maritime Security
In his concluding remarks, Commodore Adams-Aliu reaffirmed the commitment of NNS BEECROFT under his command. "It is pertinent to note that NNS BEECROFT, under my command, will continue to actualise the mission of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, which is to deploy a highly motivated and professional naval force capable of safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime interests and contributing effectively to joint operations in defence of national sovereignty and maintenance of internal stability," he added.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in maritime security and illegal migration, with authorities continuing to work together to address these critical issues through coordinated efforts and strict adherence to legal protocols.
