March 30, (THEWILL) — The Airport Police Command has successfully averted what could have become a major aviation security incident after intercepting a 14-year-old boy who attempted to unlawfully gain access to a restricted airside area at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, on Monday.
The minor was discovered on the airport tarmac while attempting to move beneath an aircraft in what authorities described as a stowaway attempt and a clear violation of aviation security protocols within one of the nation’s most sensitive operational environments.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Airport Command, ASP Mohammed Adeola, said preliminary findings showed that the juvenile unlawfully gained access into a restricted section of the airport without authorisation, in breach of Sections 2 and 3 of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) bye-laws.
He noted that the boy’s actions were consistent with an attempted stowaway operation before he was swiftly intercepted by security personnel on duty.
“Upon interception, the minor was taken into protective custody in line with due process and established child protection procedures. His parents were promptly notified, and all necessary protocols were observed, including the conduct of the interview process in the presence of his parents”, Adeola stated.
He further explained that the Command ensured the welfare and safety of the child throughout the process, providing appropriate care and support in line with child protection standards.
The Commissioner of Police, Airport Police Command, CP Ogunbode Olufunke, reaffirmed the Command’s resolve to maintain strict security across all aviation facilities, describing airports as critical national assets that must be safeguarded with the highest level of vigilance and compliance.
She stressed that while the incident was treated as a serious breach, due process and juvenile justice procedures would be strictly followed in handling the case.
Authorities also urged parents and guardians to exercise greater vigilance over their children, particularly regarding movement around restricted and high-risk environments such as airports and other critical infrastructure.
ASP Adeola confirmed that the minor would be charged before the appropriate juvenile court upon completion of administrative procedures, in line with applicable laws governing child offenders.
Anthony Awunor, is a business correspondent who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Linguistics (UNILAG). He is also an alumnus of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria Kaduna State. He lives in Lagos.
