Yemisi Izuora
The seven Nigerians accused of attempting to hijack a UK-bound ship are facing further grilling from UK authorities.
Detectives in the UK have been given a further 24 hours to question the seven Nigerians.
The Nigerians, all stowaways, were detained after military forces stormed an oil tanker in the British Channel; off the Isle of Wight and arrested them after they hijacked the vessel. The incident has resulted in a 10-hour standoff which was ended by the Special Boat Service, SBS.
The standoff began when the stowaways on board the Nave Andromeda, reportedly became violent.
The Southampton-bound ship left Lagos on October 5, 2020 with 22 crew members. Hampshire Police said the seven Nigerians will remain in custody; despite being admitted to bail, while investigations continue.
Further, a judge authorised further time for detectives questioning the seven Nigerians; with an existing extension due to run out on Wednesday evening. Also, UK police are permitted a maximum of 96 hours to question the suspects.
The seven Nigerians were arrested on suspicion of seizing or exercising control of a ship by use of threats or force under the Aviation and Maritime and Security Act 1990, police said.
The Nave Andromeda’s 22 crew members were uninjured in the incident while the ship remains moored in Southampton docks.