Security operatives have arrested four suspected bandits at the Akure airport in Ondo state.
In a statement late Sunday, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) said the bandits were apprehended following a “coordinated security operation involving aviation and local security agencies”.
FAAN further detailed that the suspicious individuals were sighted behind the airport perimeter towards the Eleyewo community.
“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,” the statement signed by Henry Adegbire, director of public affairs and consumer protection at FAAN, reads.
“During the operation, some individuals were seen attempting to flee the area. Four suspects were eventually apprehended 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, the military, the police, and local security groups, including Amotekun and community vigilantes, whose joint efforts led to the arrest.”
The agency added that the incident further highlights the importance of strengthening airport perimeter protection.
It said work has already commenced in phases to ensure that airports under FAAN are better secured against unlawful access and other security threats.
“FAAN reassures the travelling public and airport host communities of its unwavering commitment to maintaining the safety and security of all airport facilities nationwide,” the statement added.
There has been an uptick in gunmen attacks in Ondo state in recent times.
On March 3, protesters from Ayede Ogbese community, in Akure north LGA of Ondo, blocked the popular Akure-Owo-Benin highway over incessant killings and abductions in their community.
On March 10, residents of Ilu-Abo and neighbouring communities in Akure North LGA of Ondo, barricaded the Akure-Owo expressway, in protest against rising cases of kidnapping in the area.
The protesters placed the remains of a kidnap victim on the highway as they chanted solidarity songs, a development that worsened gridlock on a road that connects the south of the country to the north.
