The Nigerian Navy has apprehended eight suspected stowaways aboard the vessel MSC Katyani, as they attempted to migrate illegally to Europe.

It was gathered that the incident occurred off the coast of Lagos State on Friday over illegal migration routes.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the Nigerian Navy confirmed that the suspects were detained and handed over to the Deputy Superintendent of Immigration, Dalhatu Musa, at the Lagos Ports/Marine Command in Apapa, Lagos.

The arrested individuals are believed to have planned to reach Europe by stowing away on the commercial vessel, which was en route to international waters.

The statement reads, "On Friday, 17 January 2025, Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT apprehended 8 suspected stowaways onboard MSC KATYANI with the intention to illegally migrate to Europe.

"Consequently, the suspects were handed over to the Deputy Superintendent of Immigration Dalhatu Musa of Lagos Ports/Marine Command, Apapa Lagos."