Ondo Police Deny Arrest of Bandits at Akure Airport, Arrest Suspects in Eleyewo Instead

The Ondo State Police Command has dismissed reports that bandits were apprehended at the Akure Airport, describing the claims as misleading and capable of causing unnecessary panic.

The clarification follows a statement by the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) on Sunday, which reported that four suspected bandits were apprehended in the vicinity of the airport. Social media quickly amplified the report, causing fear among residents and travelers.

However, Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said no such incident occurred at the airport, emphasizing that the facility’s security remains uncompromised.

He explained that credible intelligence from a concerned citizen led the Command to carry out a targeted operation around the Eleyewo axis of Akure. This operation resulted in the arrest of two suspects, identified as logistics suppliers for kidnappers operating within the state.

“The suspects have made useful confessional statements which are aiding ongoing investigations to apprehend other members of the criminal network,” DSP Jimoh said.

The Command urged the public to disregard reports suggesting that bandits were arrested at the airport and assured residents that critical infrastructure, including the airport, is secure. Citizens were also encouraged to continue with their lawful activities and report credible information promptly to security agencies.