Keyamo: DSS Has No Business Searching Passengers’ Bags At Airports
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has criticized the involvement of the Department of State Services (DSS) in searching passengers’ bags at airports, stating that such actions are beyond their mandate.
In an interview on Arise News’ This Morning program on Sunday, December 8, Keyamo said, “DSS, you have no business searching people’s bags. You are profiling individuals going out of the country, particularly those under security checks.”
Keyamo also highlighted the challenges caused by the presence of multiple agencies conducting checks at airports, which contribute to long queues and delays for passengers.
“All these agencies at our airports—DSS, NDLEA, Customs, and Quarantine—are not directly under our control. Customs officials should focus on imported items, not items being exported,” he explained.
The minister clarified that these operational practices predated the current administration, noting that the agencies are outside his direct authority, limiting his ability to make immediate changes.
Keyamo’s remarks have sparked discussions about the need for streamlined processes at airports to improve passenger experiences while maintaining security standards.
