Amanze Chinonye
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has dismissed claims circulating on social media that a police officer was seen interacting with armed bandits in Katsina State, describing the narrative as false and misleading, Prime Business Africa reports.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Edem Iniedu, clarified that the individuals featured in the viral video were recognised members of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) and registered hunters working in support of ongoing security operations in Musawa and Matazu Local Government Areas of the state.
READ ALSO :
Join our WhatsApp Channel
According to the police, the video captured a routine interaction between a police officer and the community security volunteers as they moved to a designated operational area to support efforts aimed at combating criminality and improving public safety.
The clarification comes amid heightened public sensitivity over insecurity in parts of northern Nigeria, where banditry and kidnapping remain persistent threats. The viral footage had sparked concerns online about a possible relationship between security personnel and criminal elements, prompting the police response.
“The individuals featured in the video are not bandits. They are duly recognised members of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria and registered hunters who are actively supporting ongoing security operations,” the statement said.
The Force warned that the spread of misinformation on security matters could have far-reaching consequences, including creating public anxiety, eroding confidence in security institutions and undermining ongoing operations against criminal groups.
It condemned what it described as the deliberate distortion of facts, saying false narratives surrounding security activities risk frustrating collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies and community-based security groups that have become increasingly important in tackling local threats.
READ MORE :
The police urged members of the public to disregard the claims attached to the video and rely only on information disseminated through official police channels and other authorised government sources.
The NPF also warned individuals and groups involved in creating or circulating false information capable of jeopardising public peace and security to desist, noting that legal action could be taken against offenders.
Reaffirming its commitment to community-based policing and security partnerships, the Force said it would continue to work with legitimate local security stakeholders and other relevant partners to protect lives, secure communities and combat crime across the country.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
