By Adesakin Adefemi
Two police officers narrowly escaped a mob attack in Ogun State on Monday morning after residents mistakenly identified them as kidnappers. The incident occurred in Kanuyi Community, Simawa area, and was confirmed by the Ogun State Police Command.
The Command also debunked social media reports claiming that two suspected kidnappers had been apprehended in the community. It clarified that the individuals in question were serving officers attached to a Police Mobile Force squadron in Lagos State.
According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, the Simawa Police Division received a distress call around 11:00 a.m. on June 1. The caller reported that community members had caught two suspected criminals.
Officers were swiftly deployed to the scene, where they rescued the two men from an agitated crowd. The officers were taken into protective custody for identification and further inquiry.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the officers had lost their way while returning from an official assignment in Sagamu. Their unfamiliar presence in the community led residents to suspect they were kidnappers.
Police authorities said the officers’ identities were verified through valid police identity cards, deployment documents, uniforms, and other official materials. Their parent formation also authenticated them as bona fide personnel of the Nigeria Police Force on lawful duty.
The Command expressed concern that before police intervention, some members of the public had searched, photographed, and recorded the officers. This led 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 read.
The Ogun State Police Command commended residents for their vigilance but cautioned against mob action and premature conclusions.
The Command urged the public to allow security agencies to verify facts before sharing information that could endanger innocent persons or cause panic.
It added that the incident highlights the need for stronger cooperation between law enforcement and the public in combating crime and misinformation.
