​Police Move to Arraign Passengers for Mid-Air Smoking Incident

​The Airport Police Command in Lagos has announced that it will prosecute two passengers following an alarming security breach aboard an Air Peace flight from South Africa to Lagos. The incident, which occurred on the evening of July 9, 2026, resulted in the activation of the aircraft’s emergency smoke detection systems, causing widespread panic among passengers and the cabin crew.

​According to a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Mohammed Adeola, the suspects—identified as 51-year-old Enaruna Prince Aghama and 43-year-old Tony Ajayi—were apprehended upon the aircraft’s arrival at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Ikeja.

​Preliminary investigations indicate that at approximately 7:44 p.m., the two men lit and smoked cigarettes while in flight. This prohibited action triggered the airplane’s fire alarm and smoke detection sensors.

​Unruly Conduct and Escalation

​Beyond the initial act of smoking, the situation reportedly intensified when cabin crew members intervened. Reports suggest that the suspects were in possession of an alcoholic beverage and displayed aggressive behavior.

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​The suspects allegedly became uncooperative and verbally abusive when crew members attempted to enforce standard safety regulations. This unruly conduct further disrupted the flight, necessitating the involvement of Aviation Security (AVSEC) personnel upon landing.

​Official Response

​The Commissioner of Police, Airport Command, CP Ogunbode Olufunke, condemned the suspects’ behavior, emphasizing that the safety of passengers and crew is non-negotiable.

​“Any act capable of compromising aviation safety or disrupting the orderly operation of an aircraft is unacceptable,” CP Olufunke stated. She further reminded the travelling public that compliance with safety regulations is a shared responsibility essential for safe air travel.

​The police have confirmed that the suspects remain in custody and will be arraigned before a court of competent jurisdiction once investigations are concluded.

​For more context on how airlines and authorities manage such in-flight incidents, you can watch this report: Air Peace clarification on flight incident

​This video provides perspective on how the airline management and aviation authorities typically address and clarify reported in-flight security or safety concerns.