By Victoria Adonye Ibiama
As part of inter-agency collaboration, the Nigerian Navy handed over an impounded fishing trawler MFV Lady Jessica II, along with its 13 crew members, to the Federal Department of Fisheries in Bayelsa State on Saturday.
This transfer follows the trawler’s apprehension on December 11 by the Navy’s Forward Operating Base (FOB) Formoso, where it was caught trawling within an area designated for artisanal fishing boats.
The arrest took place in close proximity, less than five nautical miles from the shore near the entrance to Pennington River.
Meanwhile, the formal handover ceremony transpired at the Forward Operating Base, Egwema, Brass, and was conducted by the Commanding Officer, Capt. Murtala Rogo, represented by Commander Dantani Bukar.
During the ceremony, Capt. Murtala Rogo’s representative emphasized the Nigerian Navy’s unwavering commitment to policing and enforcing maritime laws.
He issued a stern advisory to all mariners, urging them to adhere to the laws governing the Nigerian maritime domain while conducting their individual businesses.
Additionally, he underscored the importance for fishing companies and agents to meticulously follow the instructions outlined in Form B issued by the Federal Department of Fisheries.
It was stressed that these instructions must be effectively communicated and understood by the vessel crew to prevent any inadvertent violation of state laws.
This directive aims to ensure a harmonious and lawful coexistence within the maritime sector.
