Three Ghanaian men who secretly boarded a Europe-bound vessel in Côte d’Ivoire in a desperate bid to reach Spain have been arrested in Lagos by operatives of the Nigerian Navy Ship, NNS Beecroft.
The trio, who said they are cousins, were apprehended last Saturday after the tanker MT Anatolia docked at the Dangote Terminal in Ibeju Lekki. Identified as Armah Peter, 26, Amisah Daniel, 22, and Amoh Michael, 25, they told authorities they had been working as fishermen in Abidjan before attempting the risky journey in search of better opportunities.
They spent five days hidden in the ship’s rudder compartment, enduring cramped, harsh conditions with little food or rest. Believing they had reached Europe, they emerged from hiding, only to be discovered by the crew.
The men blamed economic hardship and family pressures for their actions, saying their parents were unwell and in need of financial support. Unable to afford legal migration routes, they followed the example of others who had attempted similar journeys.
Expressing regret, they warned others against taking such risks, describing the ordeal as gruelling and dangerous. One of them recounted how they survived on limited supplies of garri and water, without sleep or basic hygiene, and were forced to relieve themselves into the open sea.
Commander of NNS Beecroft, Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, said the suspects would be handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service for further action, including eventual transfer to the Ghanaian Embassy after due process.
He noted that the operation highlights ongoing collaboration among security agencies to curb illegal migration and strengthen maritime security, while urging families and community leaders across West Africa to discourage young people from attempting such perilous journeys.