Three Nigerian nationals are currently in police custody in Ghana after a daring but ill-fated attempt to stow away on a ship they believed was heading to Spain ended with them unexpectedly arriving in Ghana instead.
The men, identified as Isaac Daniel, 32, Stephen Nuta, 28, and Kelvin Popoola, 26, reportedly boarded the vessel secretly from Nigeria, hoping it would transport them to Europe in search of better economic opportunities.
However, their journey took an unforeseen turn when the ship docked at a Ghanaian port instead of their intended destination.
According to preliminary information from security sources, the trio hid aboard the ship without proper travel documents, visas, or clearance from maritime authorities.
It was only after the vessel arrived in Ghana that their presence was discovered, triggering the involvement of local law enforcement and immigration officials.
The men were immediately taken into custody for questioning as authorities work to establish how they managed to evade port security and remain undetected throughout the voyage.
Investigations are also underway to determine whether there were lapses in maritime safety procedures or possible negligence by the ship’s operators.
Police sources indicate that the three men appeared visibly shocked upon realizing they were not in Europe, but in Ghana.
Officials say the suspects have since cooperated with authorities and are assisting with investigations.
The incident has once again drawn attention to the growing desperation among some young Africans who resort to dangerous and illegal migration routes in hopes of reaching Europe.
Maritime experts warn that stowing away on ships poses serious risks, including suffocation, dehydration, injury, and death.
Ghanaian authorities are expected to liaise with Nigerian immigration officials to determine the next steps, which may include deportation after due process.
Meanwhile, security agencies have reiterated the need for stricter port surveillance to prevent similar incidents in the future.