The Lagos State Police Command has dismissed widespread reports of alleged bandit invasions in parts of the state, describing the claims as false and warning that the misinformation has already led to a fatal mob attack.
In a statement issued on Monday, the command said viral social media posts alleging that armed bandits had infiltrated communities in Ibeju-Lekki, Imota, Oke-Afo and other areas were entirely unfounded and aimed at creating panic among residents.
Police spokesperson, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, stated that there was no evidence of any coordinated attack or security breach in any part of the state, assuring residents that schools and communities remained safe.
According to the command, security agencies have maintained a strong presence across Lagos, with surveillance and other preventive measures in place to guarantee public safety.
The police, however, disclosed that the circulation of the false alarm resulted in the death of a 24-year-old commercial motorcyclist, identified as Kulaha Ayuba.
The command explained that some youths allegedly acted on unverified claims of a bandit invasion and mistakenly branded Ayuba as a suspected Fulani bandit before attacking him.
The victim was reportedly beaten to death, while his motorcycle was stolen. His body was later discovered in a swamp within the community.
Police said prompt intervention by security operatives led to the arrest of 15 suspects linked to the incident.
The suspects are currently being investigated, while authorities have assured that anyone found culpable will face prosecution.
Condemning the spread of unverified information, the command warned that false security alerts could fuel public disorder, ethnic profiling and mob violence.
It stressed that individuals responsible for originating or deliberately circulating misleading information capable of inciting panic, violence or ethnic tension would be identified and prosecuted in line with the law.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, urged residents to remain calm and continue their daily activities without fear, noting that there was no security threat anywhere in the state.
He also advised members of the public to rely on official security channels for information and to promptly report suspicious activities rather than acting on rumours circulated on social media.
The command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, assuring Lagos residents that adequate security measures remained in place to sustain peace and public safety across the state.