Four suspected bandits have been arrested within the vicinity of Akure Airport in Ondo State following a joint security operation involving aviation security personnel, the military, the police and local security groups.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria disclosed the development in a press statement released on Sunday night, March 15, and signed by its Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire.
“The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) wishes to inform the public that four suspected bandits were today apprehended within the vicinity of Akure Airport, Ondo State, following a coordinated security operation involving aviation and local security agencies,” the statement said.
According to FAAN, the operation began after security authorities received a distress alert about suspicious individuals spotted close to the airport’s perimeter.
“The arrest followed a distress alert that suspicious individuals were sighted behind the airport perimeter towards the Eleyewo community,” the statement added.
In response to the alert, security personnel drawn from several agencies quickly launched a coordinated search of the area.
“In response, security personnel comprising FAAN’s Aviation Security (AVSEC), the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), and other local security outfits immediately launched a joint search operation,” FAAN stated.
During the operation, the suspects reportedly attempted to escape before they were apprehended by the joint security team.
“During the operation, some individuals were seen attempting to flee the area. Four suspects were eventually apprehended by the joint security team and have been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force Area Command for further interrogation,” the statement said.
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The authority commended the cooperation among the security agencies and community groups involved in the operation.
“FAAN commends the swift collaboration among aviation security personnel, the military, the police, and local security groups, including Amotekun and community vigilantes, whose joint efforts led to the arrest,” the statement noted.
The agency also said the incident underscores the need to strengthen airport security infrastructure across the country.
“The incident further highlights the importance of strengthening airport perimeter protection,” the statement read.
FAAN added that the Federal Government has begun steps to enhance security around airports nationwide.
“Consequently, the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, with the support of the Presidency under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has accelerated the provision of modern perimeter fencing and enhanced security infrastructure at airports across the country,” the statement said.
The authority assured travellers and host communities that efforts are ongoing to maintain safety across all airport facilities.
“FAAN reassures the travelling public and airport host communities of its unwavering commitment to maintaining the safety and security of all airport facilities nationwide,” the statement added.