The Nigerian Navy Base (NNS) BEECROFT has intercepted a wooden fishing boat transporting 44 bags of parboiled rice within the Agbara creeks of Lagos State. Commodore Kolawole Oguntuga, the Commander of NNS BEECROFT, announced this development in a statement released on Thursday in Lagos, as conveyed by Sub-Lt. Happiness Collins, the Base Information Officer.
Commodore Oguntuga revealed that the apprehension took place on October 11 when the NNS BEECROFT’s patrol team, conducting a routine operation, intercepted the boat carrying the contraband. This accomplishment was facilitated by the use of the state-of-the-art Maritime Domain Awareness Facility known as the Falcon Eye Alignment.
Upon spotting the patrol team, the boat’s occupants abandoned their vessel and fled the scene. The patrol team subsequently secured the boat and unloaded 44 bags of parboiled rice. In compliance with established procedures, the 44 bags of rice were transported to the NNS BEECROFT Base and handed over to Nigerian Customs Service officials for further necessary actions.
The commander affirmed the Navy’s ongoing commitment to enforcing customs laws and supporting government policies aimed at fostering the growth of small and medium-scale enterprises. He highlighted the significance of the Nigerian Navy’s role in confiscating contraband, particularly in preventing the importation of foreign rice, which contributes to empowering local farmers, generating revenue, alleviating poverty, and enhancing food security for economic prosperity.
Commodore Oguntuga also emphasized the Navy’s resolute dedication, under the leadership of Chief of the Naval Staff Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla, in tackling all forms of maritime crimes to bolster national security and stability.
