How Bi-Courtney Prevents Touting At MM2 Terminal – Management

Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL), the operator of Murtala Muhammed Airport Two (MMA) in Lagos, has explained the stringent measures it is implementing to prevent touts and touting activities at its terminal.

During a Friday interview with Saturday Independent, terminal management stated that CCTV cameras are strategically placed to monitor activities both inside and outside the terminal. Additionally, they have a positive relationship with concessionaires to improve security within their facilities.

Monica Oguta, Head of Aviation Security at BASL, told our correspondent that, in addition to the CCTV cameras in the situation room, the terminal operator has adequate Aviation Security (AVSEC) personnel equipped with body cameras to survey the surroundings.

Oguta went on to say that it conducts extensive background checks on any protocol personnel deployed to the terminal by companies, emphasising that it will go to any length to ensure maximum security at its terminal.

Oguta insisted that the management has also made security awareness training mandatory for all concessionaires and tenants.

She emphasised that the programme, which began early this year, had reached approximately 50% sensitization for its concessionaires and clients, and that everyone would be trained on it.

“We are aware of touts and touting in the industry, but we at MMA2 do not condone such behaviour. Yes, some organisations sent their officials to the airport, and others are conducting protocol business. So, when their clients travel, they can come to the terminal and assist them with tickets.

To provide protocol services, a rigorous process is followed, including ensuring that the registration fee is not too low. Also, we proceed to conduct thorough background checks on the men they are sending us.
“With that kind of investment, you can not ignore someone who has not registered to begin canvassing for tickets. There are no cleaners carrying passenger bags here. We do not allow it.

“We have a serious relationship with the airline operators here. We schedule meetings with their employees whenever they fail to meet industry standards.
“This is because if there is a problem and the airline’s employees are threatened by the passengers, we separate them and take over. We make certain they are safe from the angry passengers.”

In addition, Mr. Remi Jibodu, BASL’s Head of Aeronautics and Cargo, stated that insufficient aircraft capacity may result in airport touting.

Jibodu, who is also the Acting Chief Operating Officer (COO) of BASL, explained that the airlines’ lack of equipment capacity raises demand while supply is insufficient.

He also stated that the high level of insecurity and the current rainy season drew some passengers into the sector.

He insisted, however, that as a terminal operator, BASL discourages touting and has implemented strict measures to prevent it within its facilities.

He added, “Also, as you are aware, some airlines are grounded, and their staff is only familiar with airports. So by the time they arrive at the airport, they will want to survive.

“However, as terminal operators, we ensure that this act does not thrive at our terminal. We are here to solve a problem, which is exactly what this is.

“We have security personnel wearing body cameras. Aside from the total surveillance coverage at the terminal, we still have one-on-one sessions that are audio-enhanced. So it is not just photos.
“We even have ghost customers who approach people as passengers, and if you fall for it, we pick you up. We do not even allow impersonation. In fact, some individuals have been blacklisted.

Jibodu also praised the airlines for deploying advanced technology devices to close gaps in the booking system.