BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has confirmed the arrest of four suspected bandits around the perimeter of Akure Airport in Akure, Ondo State, following a coordinated security operation involving multiple agencies.
In a statement on Sunday, FAAN said the suspects were apprehended after a distress alert reported the presence of suspicious individuals behind the airport’s perimeter fence towards the Eleyewo community.
The authority explained that the alert triggered a rapid response from a joint security team comprising FAAN’s Aviation Security (AVSEC), the Nigerian Air Force, Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force and other local security outfits.
According to FAAN, the coordinated search operation led to the interception of some individuals who attempted to flee the area.
“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.
Buttressing that, an incident report read: “A woman and some young men were observed running from their farm behind the operational fence towards the edge of the runway shouting for help
“They had noticed some men on motorcycles. Apparently, they were being ambushed by men of the state police, Amotekun. They were eventually caught and taken away
“Earlier, in response to a distress call that some suspected persons were seen behind the airport towards Eleyewo community, troops (AVEC officers, NAF and the Nigerian Army)were in pursuit and one suspect was apprehended by joint security operatives, suspect has been taken to NPF area command for further interrogation”.
Nonetheless, the aviation authority commended the swift collaboration among aviation security personnel and other security agencies whose efforts led to the successful arrest.
It also acknowledged the role played by local security groups, including the Amotekun Corps and community vigilantes, in supporting the operation.
FAAN noted that the incident underscores the urgent need to further strengthen airport perimeter security across the country.
“The incident further highlights the importance of strengthening airport perimeter protection,” the authority stated.
It added that the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, with the backing of the Presidency under Bola Tinubu, has accelerated the deployment of modern perimeter fencing and upgraded security infrastructure at airports nationwide.
According to FAAN, work on the new security enhancements has already commenced in phases across airports under its management.
The agency said the upgrades are aimed at preventing unlawful access to airport facilities and improving the overall safety architecture of Nigeria’s aviation sector.
FAAN further reassured travellers and host communities that it remains committed to ensuring the security of airport facilities across the country.
“The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria 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.
The suspects are currently in police custody and are expected to undergo further interrogation as investigations continue.
Olapeju is a journalist and aviation reporter.
