The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has confirmed the arrest of four suspected bandits around the Akure Airport in Ondo State following a coordinated security operation involving aviation authorities and local security agencies.
FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire, disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday, March 15, 2026. He explained that the arrests were made after a distress alert reported the presence of suspicious individuals behind the airport perimeter, close to the Eleyewo community.
According to Agbebire, security personnel drawn from FAAN’s Aviation Security (AVSEC), the Nigerian Air Force, the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force and other local security outfits swiftly launched a joint search operation in the area.
He said several individuals attempted to flee when security operatives arrived, but four suspects were eventually apprehended and handed over to the Nigeria Police Force Area Command for further interrogation.
FAAN praised the quick coordination between aviation security personnel, the military, the police and local security groups, including Amotekun and community vigilantes, noting that their collaboration made the arrests possible. The authority also stressed the need to further strengthen security around airport perimeters.
The agency added that the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, with support from the Presidency, has accelerated efforts to install modern perimeter fencing and upgrade security infrastructure at airports across the country.
Agbebire stated that the upgrades are being carried out in phases to ensure airports managed by FAAN are better protected from unlawful access and other security threats.
FAAN also reassured travellers and host communities of its continued commitment to maintaining the safety and security of airport facilities nationwide.
