By Seun Ibiyemi
The Ogun State Police Command has dismissed claims circulating on social media that suspected kidnappers were apprehended in Kanuyi Community, Simawa, clarifying that the individuals captured in a viral video and photographs are serving police officers who were mistakenly identified by residents.
The Command said the clarification became necessary following widespread circulation of images and videos alleging that two suspected kidnappers had been arrested by members of the community.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, the Command disclosed that officers attached to the Simawa Division received information on June 1, 2026, at about 11:00 a.m. that two suspected criminals had been apprehended by residents.
According to the statement, police operatives were immediately deployed to the scene, where the two individuals were rescued from an angry crowd and taken into protective custody for proper identification and investigation.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the men were serving police officers attached to a Police Mobile Force Squadron in Lagos State.
Further findings showed that the officers had mistakenly found themselves in the community after losing their way while returning from an official assignment in Sagamu.
“The officers were subsequently mistaken for suspected kidnappers by some members of the public,” the statement noted.
The Command explained that verification carried out by investigators confirmed the identities of the officers through valid police identity cards, official deployment documents, uniforms and other service materials in their possession.
Their parent formation also authenticated their status as genuine members of the Nigeria Police Force engaged in lawful official duties.
Police authorities further revealed that before the arrival of operatives, some residents had searched, photographed and video-recorded the officers, leading to the circulation of misleading information across social media platforms.
While the officers escaped physical assault, the Command noted that the incident subjected them to unnecessary public suspicion and emotional distress despite their role in protecting lives and property.
The Police Command commended residents for their vigilance and willingness to support security efforts but warned against resorting to mob actions or spreading unverified information.
It urged members of the public to allow security agencies to conduct proper investigations and verification before drawing conclusions about individuals suspected of criminal activities.
According to the Command, the incident highlights the dangers of misinformation and the need for stronger cooperation between citizens and law enforcement agencies.
“It also underscores the importance of ensuring that innocent persons are not unjustly subjected to public condemnation based on unverified claims,” the statement added.
The police reiterated their commitment to community policing, professionalism, accountability and the protection of lives and property across Ogun State.
READ ALSO:TCN extends transmission line maintenance, power supply disruptions to continue until June 30
Residents were encouraged to continue reporting suspicious movements and activities to security agencies while relying on verified information from official sources.
The Command also cautioned against sharing unconfirmed reports capable of causing panic, damaging reputations or undermining public confidence in ongoing security operations.
For emergencies and credible security information, the Ogun State Police Command advised residents to contact its designated emergency lines and the Gateway Shield toll-free platform.
