The Airport Police Command has successfully brought 14 suspects to justice over their alleged involvement in the theft of building materials at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos. The suspects were arrested on April 20, 2026, between 7:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., during a routine patrol by the Joint Monitoring Task Force (JMTF) at Terminal 1, which is currently undergoing major renovation works. The operation was triggered by repeated complaints from project managers about the frequent disappearance of construction materials from the site, prompting heightened surveillance and security measures.
The JMTF, composed of officers from the Airport Police Command and other security agencies, acted on credible intelligence indicating unauthorized individuals were inside the restricted construction zone. Upon arrival, officers apprehended 14 suspects—Muhammed Sadiq, Aliu Umaru, Nuhu Muhammed, Adam Muhammed, Husaini Garuba, Suleman Umaru, Muhammed Musa, Ali Ali, Haruna Adamu, Umaru Musa, Henry Kumasen, Aliu Umaru, Idris Umaru, and Bakura Mustapha—found in possession of stolen items including high-value copper wires, iron materials, and other construction equipment. Investigations revealed that the suspects had gained access to the site by impersonating workers of the construction company, thereby bypassing existing security protocols.
Following thorough investigations, the suspects were charged before the Magistrate Court for Special Offences in Oshodi, Lagos, on April 21, 2026. Thirteen of the accused pleaded guilty and were sentenced to one year and seven months in prison. The remaining suspect pleaded not guilty and has been remanded in custody, with the case adjourned to June 16, 2026 for further proceedings. The swift prosecution underscores the commitment of the Airport Police Command to uphold law and order within the aviation sector.
Commissioner of Police for the Airport Police Command, CP Ogunbode Olufunke, commended the Joint Monitoring Task Force for their professionalism and prompt response. “Their swift action reinforces the Command’s zero-tolerance stance against criminal activities within the aviation environment,” she stated. She emphasized the command’s ongoing collaboration with stakeholders to ensure the safety, security, and uninterrupted operations of the airport. The case highlights the importance of vigilance in high-security zones, especially during large-scale infrastructure projects.
This incident serves as a warning to would-be offenders and reinforces public confidence in the security apparatus protecting Nigeria’s critical aviation infrastructure. As MMIA continues its modernization, authorities remain vigilant to prevent disruptions and safeguard investments.
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