Authorities thwart teenage boy's bid to sneak onto flight at Nigerian airport

A dramatic incident unfolded on Monday at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, MMIA, Lagos, when a 14-year-old boy, Eke Miracle, was intercepted by the Airport Police Command in connection with a stowaway attempt.

n

The minor was found on the airport tarmac, where he was trying to sneak beneath an aircraft, according to Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Mohammed Adeola, who revealed this in a statement.

n

Preliminary investigations indicate that Eke Miracle had gained unauthorized access to a restricted area of the airport, breaching Sections 2 and 3 of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, byelaws.

n

Following his interception, the boy was taken into protective custody, with his parents promptly notified and all necessary protocols observed, including an interview process conducted in their presence.

n

The Airport Police Command ensured the minor received appropriate care and support throughout the process, underscoring its commitment to upholding child protection procedures.

n

Commissioner of Police, Airport Police Command, CP Ogunbode Olufunke, reaffirmed the Command's unwavering dedication to safeguarding the nation's aviation infrastructure, emphasizing the airport's status as a critical national asset that demands strict adherence to security regulations.

n

CP Ogunbode urged parents and guardians to exercise greater vigilance over their children's movements, particularly around restricted environments like airports, while stressing that due process would be followed in the case.

n

The Command noted that the case will be handled in accordance with applicable juvenile justice procedures, with the minor set to be charged before the appropriate juvenile court.