Security operatives of the Nigerian military have arrested a suspected bandit identified as Sule Yellow, who allegedly used social media to promote the activities of criminal groups.
The suspect, who operated a TikTok account under the handle @suleyellow6, was reportedly apprehended shortly after collecting ransom money from the family of a kidnapped victim.
Before his arrest, Sule Yellow was said to be very active on the video-sharing platform TikTok, where he allegedly posted videos showcasing the operations and lifestyle of bandits.
Sources revealed that on March 4, the suspect appeared in a livestream alongside another suspected bandit known as Auta and several others, during which they reportedly discussed their activities.
Security agencies had been monitoring his online activities for some time before eventually tracking him down and carrying out the arrest. Following his capture, authorities disabled the TikTok account linked to him.
A counter-terrorism publication, Mobilising Nigeria, confirmed the development in a social media post, stating that the suspect was arrested shortly after receiving ransom payments from a victim’s family.
In a related development, security operatives have also arrested four suspected bandits near the airport in Akure, the capital of Ondo State.
The arrests were confirmed in a statement issued late Sunday by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).
According to FAAN, the suspects were apprehended during a coordinated security operation involving aviation authorities and other security agencies after suspicious individuals were sighted behind the airport perimeter towards the Eleyewo community.
Security personnel from several agencies, including FAAN’s Aviation Security unit, the Nigerian Air Force, the Nigerian Army, and the Nigeria Police Force, launched a joint search operation in the area.
During the operation, some of the suspects reportedly attempted to flee but were eventually captured by the security team. The four individuals have since been handed over to the police for further interrogation.
FAAN also commended the swift collaboration among security agencies and local groups, including the Amotekun security outfit and community vigilantes, whose joint efforts led to the successful arrests.
The authority noted that the incident underscores the need to strengthen airport perimeter security across the country. It added that measures are already being implemented in phases to improve protection at airports under its management.
FAAN reassured travellers and residents in airport host communities that it remains committed to maintaining the safety and security of airport facilities nationwide.
