The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has confirmed the arrest of four suspected bandits within the vicinity of Akure Airport following a coordinated security operation involving aviation security personnel, the military, the police, and local security groups.
In a statement issued on Sunday, FAAN said the suspects were apprehended after security operatives received a distress alert about suspicious individuals sighted behind the airport perimeter towards the Eleyewo community.
According to the agency, 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 in response to the alert.
During the operation, some individuals were reportedly seen attempting to flee the area, prompting security forces to intensify the search within the airport vicinity.
FAAN disclosed that four suspects were eventually apprehended by the joint security team and subsequently handed over to the Nigeria Police Force Area Command for further interrogation and investigation.
The authority commended the swift collaboration among aviation security personnel, the military, the police, and local security groups, including the Ondo State Security Network Agency (Amotekun) and community vigilantes, whose joint efforts led to the successful arrest.
FAAN noted that the incident underscores the importance of strengthening airport perimeter security to prevent unlawful access and other security threats.
It added that the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, with the support of the Presidency, has accelerated the installation of modern perimeter fencing and other security infrastructure across airports in the country.
According to the agency, work on the upgraded security systems has already commenced in phases to ensure that airports under FAAN’s management are better protected.
FAAN also reassured passengers, airlines, and host communities of its commitment to maintaining the safety and security of airport facilities nationwide.
