By Ighomuaye Lucky. O
The Commissioner of Police, Airport Police Command, CP Ogunbode Olufunke, has said that the plan by one Eke, 14, (other name withheld) to stowaway at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, has been foiled by men of the operatives.
The little boy was found on the airport tarmac while trying to gain access beneath an aircraft.
Early findings showed that the little boy entered a restricted area of the airport without authorization, contrary to Sections 2 and 3 of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) Byelaws, and engaged in actions consistent with a stowaway attempt.
Upon interception, the boy was 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.
Commissioner Olufunke also ensured that the minor was provided with appropriate care, support, and welfare considerations throughout the process.
Olufunke stressed the command’s 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 would be strictly followed, the CP called on parents to exercise greater vigilance over their children particularly in relation to movements around restricted and high-risk environments such as airports.
The CP further noted that the case would be handled in accordance with applicable juvenile justice procedures, and the minor would be charged before the appropriate juvenile court.
Source: Sun
