The Nigerian Navy announced the arrest of eight suspected stowaways and the rescue of eight female human trafficking victims between July 9 and July 13, 2024. 

Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, Director of Naval Information, revealed that on July 9, the Navy intercepted a boat with eight women aged 18-23 being trafficked to Benin Republic. 

They were handed over to the National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for further investigation.

According to the statement;

On July 10, Navy personnel foiled a sea robbery attempt along Uyenghe River in Akwa Ibom State, forcing the robbers to retreat after an exchange of gunfire. 

On July 12, the Navy rescued two fishermen whose boat capsized near Lekki Anchorage. On July 13, eight stowaways attempting to board MV Northernlight were arrested along Lagos Channel. 

The suspects were handed over to Nigerian Immigration Service.

Commodore Adams-Aliu stressed the Navy’s commitment to securing Nigerian waters and urged maritime operators to avoid illegal activities.