4 Arrested As Bandits Invade Akure Airport Runway

Four suspected bandits were arrested on Sunday evening after allegedly invading the runway of Akure Airport, triggering a swift response from security agencies, including the Nigerian Air Force and Amotekun Corps.

Sources told LEADERSHIP that the suspected bandits chased farmers from nearby farmlands toward the airport runway, drawing the attention of Air Traffic Controllers (ATCs) stationed in the control tower.

One of the ATCs, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the presence of the armed men on the runway raised serious security concerns for airport personnel and operations.

The controllers subsequently called for urgent intervention from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development to strengthen security around the airport.

A FAAN staff member, who also requested anonymity, disclosed that the authority immediately alerted aviation security personnel, the Air Force and other security agencies. The joint security team combed the forests surrounding the airport, leading to the arrest of four suspects.

According to the source, the suspects were ambushed and taken away by personnel of the Nigeria Police Force and Amotekun.
The source added that the suspects were initially sighted behind the airport near the Eleyewo Community, prompting security operatives and Aviation Security (AVSEC) officers to launch a pursuit.

“A woman and some young men were seen running from their farms behind the operational fence toward the edge of the runway, shouting for help. They had noticed some men on motorcycles and were apparently being chased. Security operatives, including the police and Amotekun, ambushed the suspects and arrested them,” the source explained.

Reacting to the development, the Managing Director of FAAN, Olubunmi Kuku, said the incident underscored the urgent need for improved airport perimeter security.

She noted that the Federal Government had already accelerated plans to install operational and perimeter fencing at airports nationwide.

“This is one of the reasons the President and the Minister have fast-tracked the establishment of operational and perimeter fences at airports,” she said.