Korede Abdullah 
Lagos PPRO, Abimbola Adebisi
LAGOS, Nigeria – The Lagos State Police Command has dismissed viral reports of a bandit invasion in parts of the state, revealing that misinformation contributed to the killing of a 24-year-old commercial motorcyclist and the arrest of 15 suspects.
Police spokesperson SP Abimbola Adebisi said on Monday that claims circulating on social media about armed bandits invading communities in Ibeju-Lekki, Imota and Oke-Afo were false and intended to create panic.
“The claims contained in the circulating posts are false, misleading, unfounded, and intended to create unnecessary fear, panic, and apprehension among residents,” Adebisi said.
Police disclosed that the rumours led some youths to wrongly identify commercial motorcyclist Kulaha Ayuba as a bandit and assault him.
“Regrettably, the spread of this false alarm has already resulted in a tragic and avoidable loss of life,” the statement added.
Authorities said Ayuba was killed, his motorcycle stolen, and his body later discovered in a swamp.
Fifteen suspects have been arrested and are assisting investigators.
“The Command assures the public that all those found culpable will be made to face the full weight of the law,” the police said.
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