Crime & SecurityNewsNigeriaFAAN, Security Agencies Arrest 4 Suspected Bandits Near Akure Airport

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has announced the arrest of four suspected bandits near the Akure Airport in Ondo State following a coordinated security operation involving aviation and local security agencies.

In a press statement issued on Sunday and signed by FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire, the authority said the suspects were apprehended within the vicinity of the airport after security operatives received a distress alert about suspicious activities around the airport perimeter.

According to the statement, the alert indicated that some suspicious individuals had been sighted behind the airport perimeter towards the Eleyeowo community, prompting an immediate response from security personnel.

“The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) wishes to inform the public that four suspected bandits were today apprehended within the vicinity of Akure Airport, Ondo State, following a coordinated security operation involving aviation and local security agencies,” the statement read.

FAAN explained that the operation involved a joint team comprising its Aviation Security (AVSEC) personnel, the Nigerian Air Force, the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force and other local security outfits.

“The arrest followed a distress alert that suspicious individuals were sighted behind the airport perimeter towards the Eleyeowo community. In response, security personnel comprising FAAN’s Aviation Security (AVSEC), the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), and other local security outfits immediately launched a joint search operation,” the authority said.

FAAN further disclosed that the suspects attempted to escape during the operation but were eventually captured by the security team.

“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 added.

The authority commended the collaboration among security agencies and local security groups, including Amotekun and community vigilantes, which it said contributed to the successful operation.

“FAAN commends the swift collaboration among aviation security personnel, the military, the police, and local security groups, including Amotekun and community vigilantes, whose joint efforts led to the arrest,” it said.

The agency noted that the incident underscores the need to strengthen airport perimeter protection nationwide.

“The incident further highlights the importance of strengthening airport perimeter protection. Consequently, the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, with the support of the Presidency under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has accelerated the provision of modern perimeter fencing and enhanced security infrastructure at airports across the country.”

FAAN added that work on improved security measures had already begun in phases to ensure airports under its management are better protected against unlawful access and other threats.

The authority also reassured the travelling public and host communities of its commitment to maintaining safety at airports nationwide.

“FAAN reassures the travelling public and airport host communities of its unwavering commitment to maintaining the safety and security of all airport facilities nationwide.”