Operatives of the Ogun State Police Command on Monday morning rescued two officers from being mobbed by agitated residents of Kanuyi Community in the Simawa area of the state following suspicions that they were kidnappers.
The Command also debunked reports circulating on social media alleging that two were suspected kidnappers and subsequently apprehended in Kanuyi Community, clarifying that the individuals involved were serving police officers who were mistakenly identified as criminals.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, the police said the clarification became necessary following the widespread circulation of videos and photographs portraying the officers as suspected kidnappers.
The Command disclosed that the Simawa Police Division received information at about 11:00 a.m. on June 1 that two suspected criminals had been apprehended by members of the community. In response, police operatives were immediately deployed to the area, where they rescued the individuals from an agitated crowd and took them into protective custody for identification and investigation.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the two men were serving officers attached to a Police Mobile Force Squadron in Lagos State. Further inquiries established that the officers had mistakenly lost their way while returning from an official assignment in Sagamu and were subsequently suspected by some residents.
Police authorities said verification exercises confirmed the officers’ identities through valid police identity cards, deployment documents, uniforms, and other official service materials. Their parent formation also authenticated their status as bona fide personnel of the Nigeria Police Force carrying out lawful duties.
The Command noted with concern that before police intervention, some members of the public had searched, photographed, and video-recorded the officers, leading to the spread of misleading information online.
“While the officers fortunately escaped physical harm, the incident subjected them to needless public suspicion and emotional trauma despite their commitment to safeguarding lives and property,” the statement said.
The Ogun State Police Command commended residents for their vigilance and willingness to support security efforts but cautioned against mob actions and premature conclusions.
The Command urged members of the public to allow security agencies to verify facts before sharing information capable of endangering innocent persons or causing unnecessary panic.
Police authorities said the incident underscores the sacrifices and challenges security personnel face daily in the discharge of their duties and highlights the need for stronger cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the public in combating crime and misinformation.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives and property, the Command encouraged residents to continue reporting suspicious activities while allowing proper investigations to take place.
Residents were also advised to rely on verified information from official sources and avoid circulating unconfirmed reports that could damage reputations, fuel panic, or undermine confidence in security operations.
For emergencies and credible information, residents may contact the Ogun State Police Command through the Gateway Shield toll-free line: 0800 000 9111, or emergency numbers: 0906 283 7609, 0912 014 1706, 0915 102 7369, and 0708 497 2994.
