The Airport Police Command has apprehended a 14-year-old stowaway at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos on Monday.
Police said the teenager was discovered on the airport tarmac while attempting to gain unauthorised access beneath an aircraft, describing the act as a serious violation of aviation security protocols in a highly sensitive area.
The Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Mohammed Adeola, stated that preliminary investigations revealed the minor had unlawfully entered a restricted section of the airport without authorisation, in breach of Sections 2 and 3 of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) byelaws, and had engaged in actions consistent with a stowaway attempt.
“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.
“The Command also ensured that the minor was provided with appropriate care, support, and welfare considerations throughout the process.”
The Commissioner of Police, Airport Police Command, CP Ogunbode Olufunke, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to protecting the nation’s aviation infrastructure, describing the airport as a critical national asset requiring strict compliance with security regulations.
Adeola added that while due process would be followed, the Commissioner urged parents and guardians to be more vigilant regarding their children’s movements, particularly in restricted and high-risk areas such as airports.
He noted that the matter would be handled in line with juvenile justice procedures and that the minor would be charged before the appropriate juvenile court.