The Nigeria Police Force in Ondo State has dismissed reports that four bandits were arrested at the Akure Airport, contradicting an earlier claim by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria.
The police clarified that the report was inaccurate and stressed that no security breach occurred at the airport facility.
In a statement released on Monday, March 16, the command’s spokesperson, Abayomi Jimoh, said claims suggesting that armed bandits were arrested at the airport were false.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the Command wishes to state clearly that no such incident occurred at the Akure Airport, and there was no security breach of any kind at the facility,” the statement read.
According to the police, the misunderstanding arose from intelligence reports about suspected kidnappers operating around the Eleyewo axis of Akure, which is several kilometres away from the airport.
Acting on the information, security operatives carried out a targeted operation in the area.
The operation led to the arrest of two suspects who investigators said were linked to the logistics and supply network of kidnapping gangs operating within the state.
Police authorities explained that the suspects were not bandits arrested at the airport as previously reported.
“Preliminary investigation reveals that the suspects are kidnap logistics suppliers aiding kidnap activities within the state.
“They have since made useful confessional statements that are currently aiding ongoing investigations and efforts to apprehend other members of the criminal network,” the statement added.
The command urged members of the public to disregard claims that bandits were arrested at the airport, describing the reports as false and capable of causing unnecessary panic.
The police also reassured residents and travellers that security around critical infrastructure in the state, including the airport, remains intact.
According to the command, security agencies continue to monitor activities across the state and remain committed to preventing criminal activities.
