The Nigerian Navy has handed over three fishing vessels to the Federal Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture (FDFA) for further investigation over alleged violations of fishing regulations and Automatic Identification System (AIS) requirements.
The vessels — MV OLUFUNKE 1, MV IRUO OGHENE and AM 8702 — were intercepted between August 26 and 28 during Operation ABO EJA 2026 within the Western Naval Command’s area of responsibility.
The vessels were handed over to the FDFA at the Defence Jetty in Lagos for further regulatory action.
According to the Navy, preliminary investigations indicated alleged fishing in restricted areas, irregularities involving AIS and communication equipment, as well as discrepancies in vessel classification and documentation.
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The Navy said the FDFA would conduct further examinations to determine the specific violations and take appropriate enforcement or prosecution measures where necessary, in line with existing laws and regulations.
The development forms part of ongoing efforts by the Nigerian Navy and relevant regulatory agencies to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing and protect Nigeria’s marine resources.
The Navy also reaffirmed its commitment to working with the FDFA and other stakeholders through joint patrols, surveillance, inspections and information sharing to strengthen maritime security.
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