Navy moves against illegal fishing, seizes 3 vessels

The Nigerian Navy has intensified its crackdown on illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing activities with the interception and handover of three fishing vessels to the Federal Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture (FDFA) for further regulatory action.

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 during Operation Abo Eja 2026.

Speaking with Journalists on Friday, during the hand-over ceremony, Commander, Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft, Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, who was represented by the Executive Officer, Capt. Olanrewaju Olubunmi, said preliminary investigations revealed several areas of concern involving the vessels.

According to him, the concerns included alleged fishing within restricted areas, irregularities involving Automatic Identification System (AIS) and communication equipment, as well as discrepancies in vessel classification and documentation.

Adams-Aliu said the findings had necessitated the handover of the vessels to the fisheries authorities for further investigation and appropriate regulatory action.

He said, “Preliminary investigations conducted after the interception revealed several areas of concern involving the vessels, including fishing within restricted areas, irregularities relating to Automatic Identification System and communication equipment, as well as discrepancies in vessel classification and documentation.”

The Navy said the alleged violations had now placed the three vessels under the regulatory purview of the FDFA, which would conduct further examination and determine appropriate action in accordance with extant laws and regulations.

The vessels and their operators could face enforcement measures or prosecution depending on the outcome of the regulatory investigation.

The enforcement action, the Navy said, formed part of its sustained efforts to protect Nigeria’s maritime domain and prevent the illegal exploitation of the country’s marine resources.

Under the leadership of the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral AA Mustapha, the Command said it would continue to strengthen collaboration with the FDFA and other relevant stakeholders through coordinated patrols, surveillance, inspections, and information-sharing.