Susan Abayomi
The Nigerian Navy has handed over three fishing vessels seized during its maritime enforcement operation to the Federal Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The vessels, identified as MV Olufunke 1, MV Iruo Oghene and AM 8702, were intercepted between August 26 and 28, 2026, within the Western Naval Command’s Area of Responsibility.
The handover was conducted on September 10 at the Defence Jetty in Lagos by the Executive Officer of Nigerian Navy Ship Beecroft, Captain Olanrewaju Olubunmi, on behalf of the Commander, Commodore Aiwuyor Augustine Adams-Aliu.
Preliminary findings indicated that the vessels were allegedly involved in fishing activities within restricted areas, while irregularities were also discovered involving their Automatic Identification System (AIS), communication equipment and documentation.
The Navy said the action was part of ongoing efforts to protect Nigeria’s maritime domain and safeguard the country’s marine resources.
It added that the operation was carried out under the Western Naval Command as part of measures to strengthen surveillance and enforcement against illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing activities in Nigerian waters.
The Navy also reaffirmed its commitment to working with the Federal Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture and other relevant agencies through sustained patrols, surveillance and intelligence sharing.
According to the Service, such collaboration remains important in improving maritime security, protecting Nigeria’s fisheries resources and ensuring compliance with regulations governing activities within the country’s territorial waters.
The Nigerian Navy further assured that it would continue to deploy professional and coordinated operations to safeguard Nigeria’s maritime interests and support broader national security objectives.
