A passenger was arrested for allegedly stealing N290,000 from a foreign traveller moments before takeoff aboard an Ibom Air flight from Uyo to Abuja on Wednesday, October 8, 2025.
The incident occurred around 7:00 a.m., shortly after boarding had been completed.
According to eyewitnesses, the foreign passenger raised an alarm after discovering that the money he had kept in his bag, which was placed in the overhead luggage compartment, had disappeared.
Cabin crew members immediately intervened to investigate the situation.
An observant passenger reportedly informed them that he had earlier seen the suspect handling the foreigner’s bag. When questioned, the suspect denied any wrongdoing.
The foreigner stated that N290,000 was missing from his bag, prompting an initial search of the suspect’s carry-on luggage. However, nothing was found.
Tension heightened when another passenger suggested a body search.
Witnesses said the suspect became visibly uneasy. The subsequent search led to the discovery of the missing cash hidden in his socks and under his seat.
Airport security officials were promptly alerted and the suspect was escorted off the aircraft without resistance.
He was later handed over to airport authorities for further investigation.
The incident drew reactions of shock and disappointment from other passengers.
The flight later departed for Abuja after the situation was resolved. Ibom Air has yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident as of press time.
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