FAAN arrests 4 suspected bandits near Akure Airport

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has confirmed the arrest of four suspected bandits around the Akure Airport following a joint security operation involving aviation and local security agencies.

FAAN disclosed this in a statement issued late Sunday by its Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire.

According to the statement, the suspects were apprehended after security operatives received a distress alert about suspicious movements around the airport perimeter near the Eleyewo community.

Agbebire said security personnel immediately launched a coordinated search operation to investigate the report and secure the area.

The operation involved multiple security agencies, including the FAAN Aviation Security (AVSEC), the Nigerian Air Force, the Nigerian Army and the Nigeria Police Force.

Local security outfits also participated in the operation, including the Amotekun Corps and community vigilante groups.

Joint security operation leads to arrests

Agbebire explained that security operatives moved quickly to comb the surrounding areas after receiving intelligence about the suspected presence of armed individuals close to the airport boundary.

According to him, some of the suspects attempted to escape when they noticed the approaching security teams.

However, four individuals were successfully arrested during the operation. The suspects were later handed over to the police for further interrogation and investigation.

“The suspects have been transferred to the Nigeria Police Force Area Command for further investigation,” the statement said. Authorities did not immediately disclose the identities of the suspects or whether weapons were recovered during the operation.

Security agencies are expected to determine whether the suspects were part of a larger criminal group operating in the area.

FAAN reassures travellers over airport security

FAAN commended the swift collaboration between aviation security personnel and other security agencies, noting that the coordinated effort helped prevent potential security threats near the airport.

The authority also highlighted ongoing efforts by the federal government to strengthen security infrastructure at airports across the country.

According to FAAN, the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development has intensified measures aimed at protecting airport facilities and surrounding communities.

These measures include the installation of modern perimeter fencing systems and the deployment of upgraded surveillance equipment at key aviation facilities nationwide.

Agbebire said the improvements are part of broader efforts to enhance safety within Nigeria’s aviation sector and prevent security breaches around airports.

He assured air travellers and host communities that FAAN remains committed to maintaining a secure operating environment across the country’s airport network.

The authority also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities around aviation facilities.

Security experts have often warned that airports and surrounding areas require continuous monitoring due to their strategic importance and the potential risks posed by criminal activities.

FAAN said it will continue working with security agencies and host communities to ensure the safety of passengers, staff and infrastructure at airports nationwide.

Similar read: Residents flee FCT communities over bandits’ alleged attack threat