Navy Intercepts 3 Suspected Stowaways Aboard MSC Stella Merchant Vessel, Off Lagos

The Nigerian Navy, through personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft has successfully intercepted and rescued three suspected stowaways aboard the merchant vessel MSC STELLA (IMO No. 9279988) off the Lagos Fairway Buoy, in a continued demonstration of its Search and Rescue (SAR) and maritime security commitment.

Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Information said the operation followed credible intelligence received from the Western Regional Control Centre (WRCC), at about 5:05 p.m. on Sunday, 19 April 2026.

"Acting swiftly, the Quick Response Team (QRT) of NNS Beecroft, stationed at Tarkwa Bay, was immediately deployed to the vessel’s location. 

"The team successfully rescued the three suspects approximately five nautical miles off the Lagos coastline.

"Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects illegally boarded the vessel at about 1:00 a.m. on Friday, 17 April 2026, while it was berthed at Tin Can Island Port. 

"The individuals identified as Aguru Michael (27), a national of the Benin Republic; Soye Monday (25), from Ondo State; and Kentobou Peter (22), from Delta State, reportedly intended to stow away to Europe.

"This recent rescue effort exemplifies the Nigerian Navy's unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives at sea. 

"Building on previous successful SAR missions such as the rescue of seven individuals after the collision involving a Tantita Patrol boat and a wooden vessel in Bayelsa, and the rescue and handover of three foreign stowaways aboard MT Anatolia in March 2026, the Navy continues to demonstrate its robust operational tempo in countering irregular migration and ensuring maritime safety across Nigeria’s waters.

"The suspects are now in the custody of NNS Beecroft, where they are undergoing thorough investigation and administrative processing in line with established laws.

"The Nigerian Navy reaffirms its dedication to securing Nigeria’s maritime domain and maintaining effective Search and Rescue operations to combat illegal activities within the country’s territorial waters."