Four Suspected Bandits Arrested Near Akure Airport

Four Suspected Bandits Arrested Near Akure Airport 

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has confirmed the arrest of four suspected bandits around the Akure Airport in Ondo State following a coordinated security operation involving multiple security agencies.

According to FAAN, the suspects were apprehended after a distress alert indicated that suspicious individuals had been sighted behind the airport’s perimeter fence toward the Eleyewo community in Akure North Local Government Area.

In a statement issued by FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire, security operatives immediately launched a search operation in the area.

The operation involved personnel from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria aviation security unit, the Nigerian Air Force, the Nigerian Army, and the Nigeria Police Force, along with other security agencies stationed around the airport.

Agbebire said that during the operation, some individuals attempted to escape when security agents moved into the area, but four suspects were eventually captured.

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“During the operation, some individuals reportedly attempted to flee the area, but four suspects were eventually apprehended by the joint security team,” he said.

The FAAN spokesperson disclosed that the suspects have been handed over to the police area command for further interrogation and investigation to determine their identities and possible links to banditry and other criminal activities.

He commended the swift collaboration among the security agencies, noting that the coordinated response helped prevent a potential security breach at Akure Airport.

Agbebire also said the incident highlighted the need to strengthen airport perimeter security across Nigeria.

He revealed that the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, with the backing of the administration of Bola Tinubu, has accelerated the installation of modern perimeter fencing and advanced security infrastructure at airports nationwide.

According to him, the project forms part of ongoing efforts to ensure airports managed by FAAN are better protected against unlawful access, sabotage and other security threats.

Agbebire reassured travellers and host communities that FAAN remains committed to maintaining the safety and security of airport facilities in Nigeria.

The arrest comes amid rising security concerns in Ondo State, particularly in communities within Akure North Local Government Area, where residents have recently raised alarm over kidnappings and attacks by suspected bandits.

Last week, angry residents of Ilu-Abo community blocked the busy Benin–Abuja highway to protest repeated kidnappings and abductions in the area and demand stronger security intervention.

Authorities say security patrols and surveillance have since been intensified in vulnerable communities to curb banditry and criminal activities.

Four Suspected Bandits Arrested Near Akure Airport