Police Debunk Bandit Invasion Rumours in Lagos, Arrest 15 Over Mob Killing
The Lagos State Police Command has dismissed as false and misleading viral social media reports alleging that armed bandits had invaded communities in parts of the state, including Ibeju-Lekki, Imota and Oke-Afo.
The Command described the widely circulated security alerts as unfounded and designed to create fear and panic among residents, stressing that there was no coordinated attack on any community or school in Lagos State.
In a statement issued on Monday, the police assured residents that schools across the state remain safe and that adequate security measures and surveillance systems are in place to protect lives and property.
According to the Command, the spread of the false information has already resulted in a tragic and avoidable loss of life.
The police disclosed that a 24-year-old commercial motorcyclist, identified as Kulaha Ayuba, was allegedly attacked and killed by a group of youths who acted on the false belief that armed bandits had invaded their community.
The victim was reportedly accused of being a “Fulani bandit” before he was assaulted. His body was later discovered in a swamp, while his motorcycle was allegedly stolen by the attackers.
The Command said police operatives swiftly intervened and arrested 15 suspects in connection with the incident.
It added that investigations were ongoing and assured that all those found culpable would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The Lagos State Police Command condemned the deliberate dissemination of unverified information, warning that the spread of fake security alerts could fuel public disorder, ethnic profiling and mob violence.
“Individuals found responsible for originating, publishing or deliberately circulating false and inciting information capable of causing public alarm, disorder, ethnic tension or violence will be investigated and prosecuted,” the statement said.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Moshood Jimoh, urged residents to remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding, while encouraging them to report suspicious activities through official police and emergency channels rather than relying on unverified social media reports.
The Command reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Lagos State and assured residents that security agencies remain on alert to respond promptly to any threat to public safety.