Filipino Seafarers Stuck in Lagos: The Aftermath of a 20kg Cocaine Find on Their Bulk Carrier

According to a report from the Philippine News Agency, twenty Filipino seafarers are currently detained on the Panamanian-flagged vessel MV North Bosporus in Lagos, Nigeria. This situation arose after authorities uncovered approximately 20 kilograms of cocaine during a routine inspection at the port earlier this month.

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) confirmed that the Nigerian Drug Enforcement Authority (NDEA) discovered a suspicious black parcel aboard the ship when it docked at Lagos on November 16, having traveled from Brazil.

In response to this finding, Nigerian officials obtained a court order to detain the vessel and have since relocated it for further investigation. DMW Undersecretary Jainal Rasul Jr. provided updates during a briefing in Makati City, assuring that all crew members are safe and were initially able to communicate with their families before their mobile devices were confiscated as part of the inquiry.

Rasul noted that Philippine Ambassador Mersole Mellejor is actively working with local authorities while Honorary Consul Emmanuel Oloja Akpakwu has been tasked with establishing communication with detained crew members once legal permissions are granted.

The DMW also mentioned that both shipowners and local manning agencies have engaged their Protection and Indemnity Club lawyers to be present when formal questioning commences. Notably, no statements have been made by the seafarers regarding the seized drugs.

Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac emphasized that support efforts are underway for families affected by this incident. The DMW and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration are reaching out to provide updates and assistance, including psychosocial support aimed particularly at children who may be impacted by these developments. He reassured families that financial allotments for crew members will continue without disruption.

Philippine officials remain committed to maintaining close collaboration with Nigerian counterparts as investigations unfold.