A passenger on an Air Peace domestic flight from Lagos to Port Harcourt was arrested on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, by Aviation Security (AVSEC) officials of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) for allegedly stealing a phone and money from a fellow passenger. The incident, which was captured in a now-viral video, has raised concerns about in-flight theft.
The suspect was apprehended after a search conducted upon landing at Port Harcourt International Airport. In the video, other passengers can be heard accusing the suspect of the theft, while he denies the allegations. Air Peace, in a statement released by its Head of Communication, Dr. Ejike Ndiulo, confirmed the incident and stated that the suspect was handed over to the airport police for further investigation.
Air Peace expressed growing concern over the recent increase in in-flight thefts and announced enhanced security measures, including heightened cabin crew vigilance, increased in-flight announcements about passenger security, and the potential blacklisting of the suspect. “Air Peace is taking a firm stance against such criminal acts,” Dr. Ndiulo stated, “reinforcing its zero-tolerance policy for any misconduct that compromises the safety and comfort of passengers.”
FAAN Director of Aviation Security, Igbafe Afegbai, when contacted, stated that he was unaware of the incident but would investigate with his officers.
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