Lagos Police debunk bandit invasion rumours, arrest 15 over mob killing

By Adebola Isimijola, Lagos

The Lagos State Police Command has dismissed as false reports circulating on social media alleging that armed bandits have invaded Ibeju-Lekki, Imota, Oke-Afo and other parts of the state to attack schools and children.

The Command said the viral messages and graphic materials were misleading and intended to create panic among residents, stressing that there is no security crisis or coordinated attack on any school or community in Lagos State.

In a statement issued on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, the police reassured residents that schools across the state remain safe and that security agencies have maintained adequate surveillance and security presence in all communities.

The police, however, revealed that the false alarm had already led to a tragic incident involving a 24-year-old commercial motorcyclist, Kulaha Ayuba.

According to the statement, some youths, acting on the unverified reports, allegedly accused the victim of being a Fulani bandit, attacked and killed him, stole his motorcycle and dumped his body in a swamp.

The Command disclosed that 15 suspects have been arrested in connection with the killing and are currently under investigation.

It assured the public that all those found culpable would be prosecuted.

The police condemned the spread of false information capable of causing public disorder, ethnic profiling, mob action and violence, warning that those responsible for originating or deliberately circulating such content would be investigated and prosecuted in line with the law.

The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, Tijani Fatai, urged residents to remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding, while advising them to report suspicious activities through official security channels rather than relying on unverified social media reports.

The Command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, assuring Lagos residents that adequate security measures remain in place across the state.