By: Kehinde Toyin
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 authorities and other security agencies.
In a statement issued on Sunday, FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire, said the arrests were made after a distress report indicated that suspicious individuals had been spotted behind the airport perimeter in the direction of the Eleyewo community.
“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,” Agbebire said.
He explained that some of the suspects attempted to flee when the security teams moved into the area, but four individuals were eventually apprehended during the operation.
According to him, the suspects have since been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force Area Command for further questioning and investigation.
FAAN commended the swift cooperation among aviation security officers, the military, police and local security groups, including Amotekun Corps and community vigilantes, whose combined efforts led to the arrests.
The authority also stressed the importance of strengthening security infrastructure around airports, particularly perimeter protection.
Agbebire added that the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, with support from the Presidency, has accelerated plans to provide modern perimeter fencing and upgrade security facilities at airports across the country.
“Work has already commenced in phases to ensure that airports under FAAN are better secured against unlawful access and other security threats,” he said.
FAAN further reassured passengers and host communities of its continued commitment to maintaining safety and security at airport facilities nationwide.(National Post)
