The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has revealed that four suspected bandits were apprehended within the vicinity of Akure Airport, Ondo State, following a coordinated security operation involving aviation and local security agencies.
Its Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire in a statement issued Sunday said the arrest followed a distress alert that suspicious individuals were sighted behind the airport perimeter towards the Eleyewo community.
He added: “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.
“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.”
FAAN commended 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.
Agbebire stressed that the incident further highlights the importance of strengthening airport perimeter protection.
Consequently, he noted that the federal government, through the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, with the support of President Bola Tinubu has accelerated the provision of modern perimeter fencing and enhanced security infrastructure at airports across the country.
Agbebire disclosed that work has already commenced in phases to ensure that airports under FAAN are better secured against unlawful access and other security threats.
FAAN reassured the travelling public and airport host communities of its unwavering commitment to maintaining the safety and security of all airport facilities nationwide.