The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has announced the arrest of four suspected bandits found around Akure Airport in Ondo State after a coordinated security operation.
According to FAAN, the suspects were tracked and apprehended after a distress alert raised concern about suspicious individuals spotted behind the airport’s perimeter fence toward the Eleyewo Community.
In a statement released by the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire, security personnel immediately launched a search operation in the area following the alert.
The operation involved FAAN’s aviation security team working alongside the Nigerian Air Force, Nigerian Army and the Nigeria Police Force, among other security agencies.
Agbebire explained that some of the individuals attempted to escape when security agents moved into the area, but four suspects were eventually captured by the joint security team.
“During the operation, some individuals reportedly attempted to flee the area, but four suspects were eventually apprehended by the joint security team.”
He confirmed that the suspects have been handed over to the police area command for further questioning and investigation.
The FAAN official praised the swift collaboration among the various security agencies, noting that their coordinated efforts helped ensure the suspects were quickly arrested.
He also stated that the incident highlights the urgent need to reinforce security around airport perimeters nationwide. According to him, the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development under the administration of Bola Tinubu, has stepped up efforts to install modern perimeter fencing and strengthen security infrastructure at airports across the country.
Agbebire added that the move forms part of wider steps to safeguard airport facilities managed by FAAN against unlawful entry and other security threats.
He reassured travellers and communities around the airports that the authority remains committed to maintaining safety and security across Nigeria’s aviation facilities.
The arrests come amid growing security concerns in parts of Ondo State, particularly in the Ilu-Abo Community, where residents recently protested over repeated kidnappings blamed on suspected bandits and blocked the Benin–Abuja highway to express their frustration.
