Security operatives arrested four suspected bandits near Akure Airport in Ondo State. The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria confirmed the arrests on March 16 2026 after a swift joint operation on the previous day.
FAAN Issues Statement
Henry Agbebire spoke as director of public affairs and consumer protection at the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria. Consequently he revealed that the arrests followed a distress alert about suspicious individuals near the airport perimeter.
The alert came from the Eleyewo community side. Moreover air traffic controllers spotted the suspects and immediately notified security teams.
Details of the Operation
Security personnel comprising FAAN Aviation Security and other agencies launched a joint search. In addition operatives from the Nigerian Air Force the Nigerian Army and the Nigeria Police Force joined the effort along with local security outfits.The teams combed the nearby forest and runway area. Therefore they apprehended all four suspects after some attempted to flee.
Olubunmi Kuku reacted as managing director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria. “We have alerted the CP the Brig General of the army cantonment the MAC and their men” she said. “They are all involved in collaboration with AVSEC. The joint operation was successful as four suspects were apprehended and they have been handed over to the police.”
Trigger of the Incident
Suspected bandits chased farmers from nearby farmland onto the airport runway. As a result panic spread among airport users residents and farmers around the facility.
Air traffic controllers raised the alarm from the control tower. Furthermore this prompt response prevented any major breach at the international airport.
Handover and Investigation
Operatives handed the four suspects over to the Nigeria Police Force Area Command. Consequently authorities began further interrogation to uncover possible links and motives.
Henry Agbebire added that the collaboration strengthened airport safety. Moreover the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria stressed its commitment to secure all facilities nationwide.
