By Cosmas Okereafor
The AVSEC Personnel of the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) recently intercepted a 14 year old male, identified as Eke Miracle, who, in a stowaway attempt was arrested at the premier gateway. The minor was found on the airport tarmac while attempting to unlawfully gain access beneath an aircraft, an act which constitutes a serious breach of aviation security protocols within a highly sensitive operational environment.Preliminary findings indicate that the juvenile unlawfully entered a restricted area of the airport without authorization, which is against Sections 2 and 3 of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) bylaws, and engaged in actions consistent with a stowaway attempt.Upon his interception, the minor was quickly taken into protective custody in line with due process and established child protection procedures. His parents were promptly contacted and all necessary protocols were observed, including the conduct of the interview process in the presence of his parents.
The Command also ensured that the boy was provided with appropriate care, support, and welfare considerations throughout the process. The Commissioner of Police, Airport Police Command, CP Ogunbode Olufunke, Mnips, PhD, reiterated the Command’s unshaken resolve to safeguarding the nation’s aviation infrastructure, describing the airport as a critical national asset that requires strict adherence to security regulations at all times.While emphasizing that due process will be strictly followed, CP Ogunbode urged parents and guardians to exercise greater vigilance over their children and wards, particularly in relation to movements around restricted and high-risk environments such as airports.The Command further notes that the case will be handled in accordance with applicable juvenile justice procedures, and that the minor will be charged before the appropriate juvenile court.The Command says it remains steadfast in its resolve to maintain safety, security, and order within the aviation ecosystem, while upholding the rights and welfare of all individuals, particularly minors.
