Four Suspected bandits arrested at Akure Airport

By: Mercy Folounsho

Four suspected bandits have been arrested following a security scare at Akure Airport on Sunday, after the armed men reportedly ran onto the airport’s runway while attempting to escape from security operatives.

The incident occurred in the afternoon when farmers working on nearby farmlands were seen running toward the edge of the runway, shouting for help after spotting men on motorcycles approaching from the surrounding bush.

Air Traffic Controllers inside the control tower quickly noticed the unusual movement and raised an alarm.

Security personnel, including Aviation Security officers, the Nigerian Air Force and the Nigerian Army, immediately launched a search of the nearby forest.

The operation later led to the arrest of four suspected bandits who were believed to have chased the farmers into the airport area.

Earlier, joint security teams had already been responding to reports of suspicious movements behind the airport toward the Eleyewo community.

During the pursuit, one suspect was first apprehended before additional arrests were made as the operation intensified.

All four suspects have since been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force for further interrogation.

Reacting to the incident, Managing Director, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, said security agencies including the police, the military and aviation security worked in close coordination to contain the situation.

She noted that the development emphasizes the importance of ongoing efforts by the federal government to strengthen airport security nationwide, including the accelerated construction of operational and perimeter fencing at airports.