By Victor Akaa.
In a series of successful operations, the Nigerian Navy has rescued eight female victims of human trafficking, foiled a sea robbery attempt, and arrested eight male stowaways in the nation’s maritime domain.
Director of Information,NN, Commodore Adams- Aliu in a statement, Wednesday, said between July 9-13, 2024, Nigerian Navy units across the country’s waterways conducted operations that resulted in the rescue of the human trafficking victims, the arrest of the stowaways, and the foiling of the sea robbery attempt.
He said ,on July 9, the Quick Response Team of the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base BADAGRY intercepted a wooden passenger boat carrying the eight female victims, aged between 18-23 years, en route to the Benin Republic.
The victims were handed over to the National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for further care and support.
Similarly, on July 10, Nigerian Navy personnel in Akwa Ibom State intercepted suspected sea robbers attempting to rob a supply vessel along the Uyenghe River. The robbers opened fire on the Navy personnel, who responded with heavy gunfire, forcing the robbers to retreat into the creeks.
Also on July 12, two drowning fishermen were rescued by Nigerian Navy personnel from the Forward Operating Base LEKKI around the Lekki Anchorage Area.
In a subsequent operations,the NIGERIAN NAVY SHIP BEECROFT patrol team on July 13, arrested eight suspected stowaways attempting to board a vessel underway along the Lagos Channel.
“Upon interrogation,5 suspects admitted that they attempted to board the vessel to enable them travel abroad.” he explained.
Commodore Aliu noted that the suspects and speedboats have been handed over to the Nigerian Immigration Service and the Lagos State Port and Marine Command for further investigation.
The Nigerian Navy has reiterated its commitment to keeping Nigerian waters safe and secure for legitimate economic activities, warning criminal elements to desist from illegal activities.
These operations demonstrate the Navy’s unwavering dedication to protecting the nation’s maritime domain and ensuring the safety of lives and property at sea, Enugu Reporters noted.
