JUST IN: FG, vigilante arrest bandits at Akure airports

Some bandits have been arrested within the vicinity of Akure Airport, Ondo State, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has said.

FAAN in a statement released by Henry Agbebire, its Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection said the bandits were arrested on Sunday, March 15, following a coordinated security operation involving aviation and local security agencies.

According to Agbebire, the operatives responded to a distress call about the sighting of some suspicious individuals behind the airport perimeter, heading towards the Eleyewo community.

He said that the security personnel, including 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 explained that during the operation, the suspected bandits were seen trying to flee the area but four of them were immediately apprehended by the security team.

He added that they have since been handed over to the police area command for further investigation.

“FAAN commends the swift collaboration among aviation security personnel, the military, the police, and local security groups, including Amotekun and community vigilantes, whose joint efforts led to the arrest.

“The incident further highlights the importance of strengthening airport perimeter protection. Consequently, the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, with the support of the Presidency under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has accelerated the provision of modern perimeter fencing and enhanced security infrastructure at airports across the country,” Agbebire said.

He also assured Nigerians that FAAN is working effortlessly to ensure that all its airports and their environs are highly secured and devoid of threats.

In addition, he reassured travellers and host communities of the agency’s commitment towards maintaining the safety and security of all airport facilities nationwide.