Air Peace management has explained why three unruly passengers onboard its flight from London to Lagos on Wednesday, 12 February, were arrested by security operatives.
The airline in a statement signed by the Head of Corporate Communications, Dr Ejike Ndiulo, said the three passengers engaged in violent behaviour that endangered the safety of the flight and its passengers and crew.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe statement revealed that the incident started when two of the passengers identified as Adedigba Adewale and Ashibogu Magnus, who originally had seats in Economy Class, went and unlawfully occupied seats in the Business Class cabin and refused to heed several instructions from the crew to return to their assigned seats. “They bullied their way through to the business class unauthorised,” the airline said.
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The statement further stated that despite efforts to de-escalate the situation, the unruly passengers remained defiant, creating a tense atmosphere onboard.
It added that apart from disregarding instructions from the crew, the individuals openly consumed a bottle of rum they had brought onboard.
According to the statement, they were joined by a third person, identified as Iwonze Benjamin, in consuming the alcoholic drink. “This further exacerbated their unruly conduct.”
The airline said their conduct raised security and safety concerns prompting the flight crew to inform Nigeria’s law enforcement agents, who arrested them upon arrival at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.
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It said: “Their behaviour raised security and safety concerns among passengers and crew, prompting the captain to make repeated announcements from the cockpit.
“Recognising the potential threat, the flight crew notified security agencies in Nigeria ahead of arrival. Upon landing, law enforcement officials were on ground to apprehend the individuals who were taken into custody for further investigations.
“Air Peace has reiterated its commitment to passenger safety and adherence to global aviation standards. The airline emphasised that any form of disruptive behaviour would not be tolerated and assured the public of its continuous efforts to uphold the highest levels of security and order on all flights.”
Air Peace commended its crew members for their professionalism in handling the situation that posed a threat to safety during the flight, adding that their approach prevented the worst from happening.
It further stated that authorities are currently investigating the incident, adding that appropriate legal action is expected to follow.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with seven years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Master's degree in Mass Communication.
