14-year-old boy arrested at airport after attempting to sneak beneath an aircraft to travel out of the country

The Airport Police Command has intercepted a 14-year-old boy, identified as Eke Miracle, for attempting to stow away at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.

The incident, which occurred on the airport tarmac, was confirmed in a statement by the command’s spokesperson, who said the minor unlawfully gained access to a restricted zone without authorisation.

Authorities noted that the act posed serious risks to both the teenager and aviation operations, raising fresh concerns about airport security in Nigeria.

Security breach raises concern

“The minor was discovered on the airport tarmac while attempting to unlawfully gain access beneath an aircraft. This constitutes a serious breach of aviation security protocols within a highly sensitive operational environment,” the police said.

“His actions contravene existing byelaws that prohibit unauthorised access to restricted areas. Such incidents are dangerous and unacceptable, especially in critical national infrastructure like airports,” the statement added.

Police assure due process, child protection

Following his interception, the police said the teenager was taken into protective custody, with his parents promptly notified and all procedures conducted in line with child protection guidelines.

“Upon interception, the minor was handled in accordance with due process. He was treated humanely, and all interviews were conducted in the presence of his parents, ensuring his welfare was prioritised,” the command stated.

Authorities also urged parents to monitor their children closely, particularly around high-risk environments.