Alarm raised at Akure Airport after thugs invade airstrip

Suspected bandits chased farmers off their farmland and onto the Akure Airport runway in Ondo State on Sunday, prompting a desperate scramble for safety.

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A woman and several young men were seen fleeing their farm, which is located behind the airport's operational fence, and making a beeline for the runway's edge while shouting for help after spotting men on motorcycles.

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Air Traffic Controllers in the tower swiftly alerted security personnel, including Aviation Security and Air Force staff, who promptly searched the nearby forest and apprehended four suspects.

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The arrested individuals have been taken to the Area Command for questioning, as the investigation into the incident continues.

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In a distress message, a Nigerian Airspace Management Agency staff member expressed concern about the safety of personnel, stating that bandits had entered the airport runway and that the security of staff was at risk.

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The staff member appealed to management and the Federal Ministry to intervene and ensure the safety of personnel, highlighting the urgent need for action.

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Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, responded to the incident by stating that the authorities had been alerted, including the CP, the Brigadier General of the army cantonment, and the MAC.

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According to Mrs Kuku, a joint operation involving AVSEC and other security personnel was successful in apprehending four suspects, who were subsequently handed over to the police.

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The successful operation was attributed to the collaborative efforts of the security agencies, and Mrs Kuku noted that the incident highlighted the need for operational and perimeter fences at airports, a measure that the president and minister are now accelerating.