The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has confirmed the arrest of four suspected bandits around the premises of Akure Airport in Akure, Ondo State, following a coordinated security operation.
According to FAAN, the suspects were apprehended after security operatives received a distress alert indicating that suspicious individuals had been sighted behind the airport’s perimeter fence near the Eleyewo community. The alert immediately triggered a joint search operation involving multiple security agencies.
The operation involved personnel from FAAN’s Aviation Security unit (AVSEC), the Nigerian Air Force, Nigerian Army, and the Nigeria Police Force, alongside local security outfits including Amotekun and community vigilantes.
FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire, explained that the suspects attempted to flee when security personnel began combing the surrounding area. However, four of them were eventually captured during the operation and handed over to the police for further interrogation.
Reports also indicated that the suspects were first noticed after farmers ran toward the airport runway seeking help, claiming that armed men on motorcycles had chased them from nearby farmlands. Air traffic controllers reportedly alerted security operatives after spotting the situation from the control tower.
FAAN commended the swift collaboration among aviation security personnel, military forces, police officers, and local security groups that led to the successful arrests.
The authority noted that the incident highlights the need for stronger airport perimeter protection across the country. FAAN added that the federal government has already begun installing improved fencing and other security infrastructure at airports nationwide to prevent unlawful access and enhance safety.
The agency also reassured travellers and host communities that it remains committed to maintaining strict security measures at Nigerian airports while investigations into the suspects continue.
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