Police speak on alleged arrest of bandits at Akure Airport

By Ayorinde Oluokun/Abuja

The Ondo Police Command has described reports that four bandits were arrested at Akure Airport as misleading, false capable of causing unnecessary panic.

The Ondo Police Command spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh said this in a statement on Monday while reacting to the viral story of arrest of the bandits at Akure Airport.

The Federal Airport Aviation Authority, FAAN had in a statement on Sunday confirmed arrest of four suspected bandits at a community near the airport by its security personnel and local vigilance group.

However, the statement has been followed by obviously coordinated deliberate disinformation indicating that the bandits were arrested inside the airport while attempting to hijack an airplane.

“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 Ondo Police Command said while dismissing the claim.

However, the Command said it received credible intelligence from a concerned citizen regarding the activities of suspected kidnappers around the Eleyewo axis of Akure.

Jimoh said acting swiftly on the tip-off, operatives of the Command launched a targeted operation in the area which led to the arrest of two suspects.

According to him, preliminary investigation reveals that the suspects are Kidnap Logistics Suppliers aiding kidnap activities within the state.

He added that the suspects have since made useful confessional statements that are currently aiding ongoing investigations and efforts to apprehend other members of the criminal network.

“The Ondo State Police Command therefore urges members of the public to disregard the inaccurate reports suggesting that bandits were arrested at the Akure Airport, as such claims are false, misleading, and capable of causing unnecessary panic.

The Police Command also reassured residents that security around critical infrastructure, including the airport, remains intact and uncompromised. Members of the public are encouraged to continue with their lawful activities without fear and to always provide timely and credible information to security agencies.

“The Commissioner of Police appreciates the vigilance and cooperation of citizens and reiterates the Command’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents of Ondo State,” Jimoh concluded.