Panic at Akure Airport as Armed Bandits Attempt to Hijack Aircraft, Four Arrested

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

In a statement issued by FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire, the authority disclosed that the suspects were apprehended after security operatives received a distress alert about suspicious individuals spotted behind the airport’s perimeter fence towards the Eleyewo community.

According to the statement, the alert prompted an immediate joint security response involving FAAN’s Aviation Security (AVSEC), the Nigerian Air Force, the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, as well as local security outfits.

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

The arrested individuals have since been handed over to the Area Command of the Nigeria Police Force for further interrogation and investigation.

FAAN commended the swift collaboration among aviation security personnel, military officers, police operatives and local security groups, including the Amotekun Corps and community vigilantes, whose coordinated efforts led to the successful arrest.

The authority noted that the incident underscores the need to strengthen security around airport facilities, particularly in safeguarding airport perimeters from unlawful access.

FAAN further revealed that the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has accelerated plans to upgrade airport security infrastructure nationwide.

The initiative, supported by the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, includes the installation of modern perimeter fencing and other advanced security measures across airports managed by FAAN.

According to the agency, work has already commenced in phases to improve security systems and prevent unauthorized access to airport environments across the country.

FAAN also reassured travellers and host communities around airports of its continued commitment to ensuring the safety and security of aviation facilities nationwide.