Security operatives have arrested four suspected bandits around the perimeter of Akure Airport following a joint security operation involving aviation authorities and local security agencies.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) disclosed this in a statement on Sunday by its Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire.
Agbebire explained that the arrests were made after a distress alert indicated that some suspicious individuals had been sighted behind the airport’s perimeter fence, towards the Eleyewo axis.
According to him, security personnel immediately launched a coordinated search operation in the area.
“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,” he said.
Agbebire added that while some of the suspects attempted to flee upon sighting the security operatives, four individuals were eventually apprehended and subsequently handed over to the Nigeria Police Force Area Command for further interrogation.
FAAN commended the swift collaboration among aviation security personnel, the military, the police and local security groups, including the Amotekun Corps and community vigilantes, noting that their joint efforts led to the successful arrests.
The authority also emphasised the need to strengthen security around airport perimeters across the country.
It added that the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, with support from the Presidency, has accelerated the deployment of modern perimeter fencing and other security infrastructure at airports nationwide.
According to FAAN, the project is already being implemented in phases to ensure that airports under its management are better protected against unlawful access and other security threats.
The agency reassured travellers and host communities of its continued commitment to maintaining the safety and security of airport facilities across the country.