Security agents attempting to board an Aero Contractors flight with over $6 million in cash were arrested on Saturday at the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 2 (MM2) in Lagos.
The operatives, whose number was not disclosed, were caught during routine checks after security officers discovered multiple boxes filled with undeclared foreign currency.
Sources at the airport said the suspects had already cleared security before being stopped at the foot of the aircraft, where Aero Contractors staff noticed the unusually heavy luggage.
Aviation Security (AVSEC) officials were alerted and later handed the case to the Department of State Services (DSS), which subsequently transferred the suspects to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for investigation.
An airport source revealed that the suspects initially identified themselves as security personnel escorting a suspect and “exhibits.” However, they failed to declare the cash or follow the required procedure for transporting suspects on commercial flights.
The source added that this claim may have helped them bypass the initial screening, but their actions at the boarding gate raised suspicion when AVSEC officers observed their reluctance to check in the boxes.
Aero Contractors Managing Director, Ado Sanusi, confirmed the incident, explaining that the airline’s security team intervened after the individuals refused to check in their heavy bags.
“Our security noticed passengers with very heavy bags who refused to check them in. They later said the bags contained money but could not provide proof of declaration. When they claimed to be security officers escorting a suspect, we told them there are established protocols for such cases. They failed to comply and were stopped from boarding,” Sanusi said.
He added that airlines must be notified in advance when law enforcement agencies intend to move suspects, as standard boarding and flight procedures must be observed.
Officials from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited were unavailable for comment at the time of reporting.
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