A male passenger aboard an Ibom Air flight has been arrested for allegedly stealing ₦290,000 from a foreign national’s luggage before the aircraft departed Lagos for Abuja on Wednesday morning.
The incident occurred while boarding was still underway, prompting immediate intervention by Aviation Security (AVSEC) officers and the airline’s cabin crew.
The suspect was swiftly identified, deboarded, and later handed over to the police for investigation.
According to verified sources familiar with the matter, the foreign passenger raised an alarm after discovering that cash kept in his hand luggage stored in the overhead compartment had gone missing.
The situation briefly disrupted boarding procedures as the cabin crew moved to restore calm and initiate a search.
Eyewitnesses stated that suspicion quickly turned to a fellow passenger who had been observed handling the foreigner’s bag earlier.
A preliminary search reportedly yielded nothing; however, after a second, more thorough check was conducted, part of the stolen amount was recovered hidden inside the suspect’s socks, while the remaining cash was found beneath his seat.
A spokesperson for Ibom Air, Aniekan Essienette, confirmed the development, noting that the airline’s internal security protocols and the rapid response of AVSEC personnel helped avert further disturbance onboard.
She explained that the suspect was transferred to law enforcement authorities immediately after the discovery and that the situation was contained without delay.
“Our crew acted promptly in line with established aviation safety standards, ensuring the incident did not escalate,” she said.
Industry observers have noted that incidents of in-flight theft have become an increasing concern within domestic aviation, particularly on busy short-haul routes.
Airlines have consistently urged passengers to keep cash, electronics, and other valuables within reach during travel rather than in overhead compartments.
Security analysts also emphasised the need for improved cabin surveillance and consistent enforcement of passenger screening procedures to deter such crimes.
Although the suspect remains in police custody, the foreign national reportedly expressed no interest in pursuing formal charges, a decision that could affect prosecution outcomes.
The swift action of Ibom Air’s crew and security team has been praised by travellers and aviation stakeholders, who described the intervention as a reflection of the airline’s commitment to maintaining order and safety across its operations.