Security Operatives Arrest 4 Suspected Bandits At Akure Airport

Security operatives have arrested four suspected bandits at the Akure Airport in Ondo State.

In a statement issued late Sunday, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) said the suspects were apprehended during a coordinated security operation involving aviation and local security agencies.

FAAN explained that the individuals were first sighted behind the airport perimeter, towards the Eleyewo community.

“In response, security personnel comprising FAAN’s Aviation Security (AVSEC), the Nigerian Air Force, the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, and other local security outfits immediately launched a joint search operation,” the statement signed by Henry Adegbire, FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, said.

According to the agency, some individuals attempted to flee the area during the operation, but four suspects were eventually apprehended by the joint security team.

The suspects have since 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, noting that their joint efforts led to the arrests.

The Authority added that the incident underscores the need to strengthen airport perimeter protection. It said work has already commenced in phases to improve security across airports under its management and prevent unlawful access.

FAAN also reassured travellers and host communities of its commitment to maintaining the safety and security of airport facilities nationwide.

Meanwhile, Ondo State has witnessed a surge in attacks by gunmen in recent weeks.

On March 3, protesters from Ayede Ogbese community in Akure North Local Government Area blocked the Akure-Owo-Benin highway to protest persistent killings and abductions in their area.

Similarly, on March 10, residents of Ilu-Abo and neighbouring communities in Akure North barricaded the Akure-Owo expressway over rising cases of kidnapping. During the protest, demonstrators placed the remains of a kidnap victim on the highway while chanting solidarity songs, worsening gridlock on the major road linking southern and northern parts of the country.