By Mustapha Muhammad
Four suspected bandits were on Tuesday, apprehended within the vicinity of Akure Airport, Ondo State.
The arrest was a result of coordinated security operation involving aviation and local security agencies.
Mr Henry Agbebire Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection of the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), made this known in a statement issued, Tuesday.
He said the arrest followed a distress alert that suspicious individuals were sighted behind the airport perimeter towards the Eleyewo community.
He noted that in response, security personnel comprising FAAN’s Aviation Security (AVSEC), the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), and other local security outfits immediately launched a joint search operation.
During the operation, he said, some individuals were seen attempting to flee the area but were successfully apprehended.
He added “Four suspects were eventually nabbed by the joint security team and have been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force Area Command for further interrogation.
FAAN commends the swift collaboration among aviation security personnel, comprising the military, the police, and local security groups, including Amotekun and community vigilantes, whose joint efforts led to the arrest.”
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The incident further highlights the importance of strengthening airport perimeter protection.
Consequently, the statement said, the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, with the support of the Presidency under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has accelerated the provision of moder perimeter fencing and enhanced security infrastructure at airports across the country.
The director pointed out that work has already commenced in phases to ensure that airports under FAAN are better secured against unlawful access and other security threats.
FAAN therefore reassures the travelling public and airport host communities of its unwavering commitment to maintaining the safety and security of all airport facilities nationwide.
