The Ogun State Police Command has refuted a viral video that falsely depicted arrested Police Mobile Force (PMF) officers as suspected kidnappers terrorizing Sagamu Local Council and its surroundings. In a clarification issued on Tuesday, the command stated that the individuals in the video were police officers deployed from Lagos State, not criminals.
Incident Details
According to reports, the officers were initially mistaken for kidnappers and apprehended by members of the Kanuyi Community in Simawa. They were returning from an official assignment in Sagamu when they lost their way, leading to their capture by community members. One of the viral videos showed the officers seated on the ground, surrounded by an agitated crowd.
Police Response
Reacting to the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, confirmed in a statement that operatives of the Simawa Division were promptly deployed to the scene upon receiving the report. Investigations revealed that the suspects were serving police officers attached to a Police Mobile Force Squadron in Lagos State. Their identities were verified through valid police identification cards, deployment documents, uniforms, and other official materials. “The parent formation also authenticated their status as bona fide members of the Nigeria Police Force engaged in lawful duties,” Babaseyi said.
Misinformation and Public Reaction
Before police arrived, the officers had been searched, photographed, and filmed by residents, after which misleading materials were circulated on social media. Although the officers were not physically harmed, the incident exposed them to unwarranted public suspicion and emotional distress. The police spokesperson commended residents for their vigilance but urged citizens to refrain from mob action and allow security agencies to verify incidents before drawing conclusions or disseminating potentially harmful information.
“This incident highlights the challenges and sacrifices security personnel make daily in the discharge of their duties. It also underscores the importance of cooperation between the public and law enforcement agencies in promoting safety, preventing misinformation, and ensuring that innocent persons are not unjustly subjected to public condemnation,” he added.
