Four suspected bandits have been arrested within the vicinity of Akure Airport in Ondo State following a coordinated security operation involving aviation authorities and multiple security agencies.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) disclosed that the suspects were apprehended on Monday after security operatives received a distress alert about suspicious individuals sighted behind the airport perimeter near the Eleyewo community.
In a statement, FAAN said the alert prompted an immediate response by security personnel drawn from its Aviation Security (AVSEC) unit, the Nigerian Air Force, the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, as well as local security outfits.
“Following a distress alert that suspicious individuals were sighted behind the airport perimeter towards the Eleyewo community, security personnel immediately launched a coordinated search operation in the area,” FAAN said.
According to the authority, during the operation some individuals attempted to flee on sighting security operatives.
“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 added.
FAAN commended the swift collaboration among aviation security personnel, the military, the police and local security groups, including the Ondo State Security Network Agency (Amotekun Corps) and community vigilantes.
“The authority commends the swift collaboration among aviation security personnel, the military, the police and local security groups whose joint efforts led to the arrest of the suspects,” FAAN stated.
The agency noted that the incident highlights the importance of strengthening airport perimeter protection across the country.
“Consequently, the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, with the support of the Presidency, has accelerated the provision of modern perimeter fencing and enhanced security infrastructure at airports nationwide,” the statement said.
FAAN added that work has already commenced in phases to improve security at airports under its management.
Reassuring the public, the authority said: “FAAN remains committed to maintaining the safety and security of all airport facilities nationwide and assures the travelling public and host communities that necessary measures are being taken to prevent unlawful access and other security threats.”
The suspects are currently in police custody as investigations continue.