By Ali Elias
Four suspected bandits have been arrested in the vicinity of Akure Airport, Ondo State, following a coordinated security operation involving multiple agencies, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has disclosed.
According to a statement issued on March 15, the suspects were apprehended after a distress alert reported the presence of suspicious individuals behind the airport perimeter, near the Eleyewo community. The alert triggered a rapid response from a joint security team comprising FAAN’s Aviation Security (AVSEC), the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), and local security outfits.
“The arrest followed a distress alert that suspicious individuals were sighted behind the airport perimeter,” the agency said, adding that the coordinated response led to a swift containment of the threat.
Authorities disclosed that some of the suspects attempted to flee upon sighting security operatives but were eventually apprehended. They have since been handed over to the police for further interrogation and possible prosecution.
FAAN commended the synergy among security agencies and local groups, noting that the success of the operation underscored the importance of inter-agency collaboration in safeguarding critical infrastructure.
“The swift collaboration among aviation security personnel, the military, the police, and local security groups, including Amotekun and community vigilantes, led to the arrest,” the statement noted.
The incident has once again brought to the fore concerns over the vulnerability of airport perimeters across the country. FAAN emphasized that efforts are underway to reinforce security architecture at airports nationwide.
According to the authority, the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development and with the backing of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has accelerated the deployment of modern perimeter fencing and advanced security infrastructure.
“Work has already commenced in phases to ensure that airports under FAAN are better secured against unlawful access and other security threats,” the agency stated.
FAAN further reassured travelers and host communities of its commitment to maintaining safety standards, stressing that the latest development demonstrates heightened vigilance around aviation facilities.
Security analysts say the incident reflects growing threats to public infrastructure and the general public.