Four suspected bandits have been arrested within the vicinity of Akure Airport in Ondo State following a coordinated security operation involving aviation authorities and other security agencies.

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday.

According to FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr. Henry Agbebire, the arrests followed a distress alert indicating that suspicious individuals had been sighted behind the airport perimeter near the Eleyewo community.

“Security personnel comprising FAAN’s Aviation Security (AVSEC), the Nigerian Air Force, the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, and other local security outfits immediately launched a joint search operation,” Agbebire said.

He added that several individuals attempted to flee the area, but four suspects were eventually apprehended and handed over to the Nigeria Police Force Area Command for further interrogation.

FAAN commended 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 arrests. The authority also emphasised the need to strengthen airport perimeter protection.

The agency stated that the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, with support from the Presidency, has accelerated the provision of modern perimeter fencing and enhanced security infrastructure at airports nationwide.

“Work has already commenced in phases to ensure that airports under FAAN are better secured against unlawful access and other security threats,” Agbebire said.

The authority also reassured travellers and host communities of its unwavering commitment to maintaining the safety and security of airport facilities across the country.