The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft has handed over three fishing vessels arrested during ‘Operation ABO EJA 2026’ to the Federal Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture, for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The vessels ‘MV OLUFUNKE 1’, ‘MV IRUO OGHENE’ and ‘AM 8702’, were intercepted between 26 and 28 August 2026 within the Western Naval Command Area of Responsibility.
The handover on Thursday, 10 September 2026 at the Defense Jetty, Lagos, was done by the Executive Officer of NNS BEECROFT, Capt. Olanrewaju Olubunmi, on behalf of the Commander, Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu. Preliminary findings showed alleged fishing in restricted areas, AIS and communication equipment irregularities, and documentation discrepancies.
The Navy said the exercise forms part of efforts by the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, to secure Nigeria’s maritime domain and protect marine resources.
Under the Western Naval Command led by Rear Admiral AA Mustapha, NNS BEECROFT pledged to sustain collaboration with FDFA and other agencies through patrols, surveillance and intelligence sharing to check illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing.
The Command added that it remains committed to deploying a professional force to safeguard Nigeria’s maritime interests and support national security.
