The Airport Police Command has intercepted a 14-year-old stowaway at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos.
The minor was discovered on the airport tarmac while allegedly attempting to gain unlawful access beneath an aircraft, an act authorities described as a serious breach of aviation security in a highly restricted area.
The Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Mohammed Adeola, said preliminary findings showed that the teenager had entered a restricted section of the airport without authorisation, contrary to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) byelaws, and engaged in actions consistent with a stowaway attempt.
“Upon interception, the minor was taken into protective custody in line with due process and child protection procedures. His parents were promptly notified, and all necessary protocols were observed, including conducting the interview in their presence,” Adeola said.
He added that the Command ensured the boy received appropriate care and welfare support throughout the process.
The Commissioner of Police, Airport Police Command, CP Ogunbode Olufunke, reiterated the Command’s commitment to safeguarding the nation’s aviation infrastructure, describing the airport as a critical national asset that requires strict adherence to security regulations.
While assuring that due process would be followed, Adeola said the Commissioner urged parents and guardians to be more vigilant, particularly regarding their children’s movements around restricted and high-risk environments such as airports.
He added that the case would be handled in line with juvenile justice procedures, and the minor would be charged before the appropriate juvenile court.
