The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) on Sunday announced the arrest of four suspected bandits around the Akure Airport in Ondo State following a joint security operation.

It said the suspects were apprehended after a distress alert indicated that suspicious individuals were sighted behind the airport perimeter towards the Eleyewo community in the Akure North Local Government Area of the state.

In a statement by its Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire, FAAN said security agents comprising its aviation security unit, the Nigerian Air Force, the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, and other security outfits immediately launched a search operation in the area.

Mr Agbebire stated that during the operation, some of the suspects attempted to flee but four of them were apprehended by the joint security agents.

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

He stated that the suspects had been handed over to the police area command for further interrogation.

Mr Agbebire commended the swift collaboration among the security agents which which led to the arrest of the suspects.

He noted that the incident highlighted the need to strengthen airport perimeter security across the country.

Mr Agbebire added that the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, with the support of the administration of President Bola Tinubu, had accelerated the installation of modern perimeter fencing and other security infrastructure at airports nationwide.

He said the development was part of ongoing efforts to ensure airports under FAAN’s management were better protected against unlawful access and other security threats.

Mr Agbebire reassured travellers and host communities of the agency’s commitment to maintaining the safety and security of airport facilities across the country.

The development came amid the rising security challenges in the state and growing tension among residents, particularly at Ilu-Abo in the Akure North Local Government Area of the state.

Last week, aggrieved residents of the area trooped the road to block the Benin/Abuja highway, expressing frustration over abductions by suspected bandits.