…FAAN, Army, and Police launch joint security operation
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) on Sunday announced the arrest of four suspected bandits near Akure Airport in Eleyewo, Akure North Local Government Area, Ondo State.
FAAN said the arrests followed a coordinated security operation involving aviation and local security agencies aimed at curbing criminal activities around the airport.
The operation comes amid a surge in kidnappings and violent attacks in the Ilu-Abo community, close to the airport. Residents have repeatedly protested the insecurity, demanding urgent intervention from government and security agencies.
According to reports, at least 10 kidnapping incidents were recorded in the area over the past two months, heightening public concern over safety and prompting the security clampdown.
FAAN said the arrested suspects were apprehended after security operatives received a distress alert that suspicious individuals had been sighted behind the airport perimeter towards the Eleyewo community.
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According to a statement issued by the agency’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire, security personnel immediately launched a joint search operation in response to the alert.
Mr Agbebire said the operation involved FAAN’s Aviation Security (AVSEC), the Nigerian Air Force, Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, and other local security outfits.
“During the operation, some individuals reportedly attempted to flee the area, but four suspects were eventually apprehended by the joint security team.
“The suspects have been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force Area Command for further interrogation,” the statement said.
FAAN commended the swift collaboration among aviation security personnel, the military, the police and local security groups, including Amotekun Corps and community vigilantes, whose joint efforts led to the arrests.
The authority said the incident underscored the importance of strengthening airport perimeter protection across the country.
It added that the federal government, through the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, with the support of the Presidency under Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has accelerated the provision of modern perimeter fencing and enhanced security infrastructure at airports nationwide.
FAAN disclosed that work has already commenced in phases to ensure airports under its management are better secured against unlawful access and other security threats.
The authority, however, reassured the travelling public and host communities of its commitment to maintaining safety and security across all airport facilities in Nigeria.
