Security operatives at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on Wednesday, arrested three unruly passengers aboard an Air Peace flight from London after they engaged in disruptive behaviour that posed a threat to the safety of the flight, its passengers, and crew members.
The incident unfolded mid-flight when two passengers, identified as Adedigba Adewale and Ashibogu Magnus, who were originally seated in Economy Class, forcefully moved into the Business Class cabin without authorisation.
Despite repeated instructions from the cabin crew to return to their assigned seats, they refused to comply and insisted on remaining in the section, creating tension among passengers and crew.
Efforts by the crew to de-escalate the situation proved unsuccessful as the two individuals continued to defy instructions. Their disruptive actions intensified when they openly consumed a bottle of rum they had brought onboard, violating airline regulations. A third passenger, identified as Iwonze Benjamin, joined them in drinking the alcohol and engaging in further unruly behaviour, exacerbating the disturbance.
The escalating situation raised serious safety concerns among passengers and crew members. At one point, the captain left the cockpit to personally assess the disruption.
Recognising the growing threat, the flight crew alerted security agencies in Nigeria ahead of the aircraft’s arrival in Lagos.
Upon landing, law enforcement officials were on the ground to swiftly apprehend the three individuals, who were taken into custody for further investigation.
Air Peace reaffirmed its commitment to passenger safety and strict adherence to global aviation standards. The airline stated that it has a zero-tolerance policy towards disruptive behaviour and assured the public that it would continue to uphold the highest levels of security and order on all its flights.
Air Peace also commended its flight crew for their professionalism in managing the situation, ensuring that the incident did not escalate further or result in more serious consequences.
Authorities have since launched an investigation into the matter, with legal action expected to follow.
