The Lagos State Police Command has firmly refuted recent claims made by the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) regarding the alleged arrest of thousands of suspected Boko Haram members in the state.
Commander of the CJTF in Lagos, Kumar Sanda, had earlier stirred public anxiety on Thursday when he reportedly declared, “If I should mention the number of Boko Haram members we have arrested in Lagos State, people will not believe it. But we have arrested thousands.”
The police have described the statement as “false, malicious, and intended to incite fear and panic among residents.”
In a swift response, the Lagos State Police Command released an official statement late Thursday, signed by Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin. The statement categorically dismissed the report, affirming that there has been no verified sighting or arrest of Boko Haram operatives anywhere in Lagos State.
CSP Hundeyin confirmed that the Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Moshood Jimoh, has ordered an immediate and thorough investigation into the claims to trace their origin and intent.
To ensure transparency, the command dispatched surveillance detectives, operatives of the State Intelligence Department (SID), and other security formations to all communities mentioned in the CJTF’s report. Their findings revealed that no trace of Boko Haram activity was detected, and local leaders, drivers, and park operators corroborated this.
“The command, notwithstanding, deployed surveillance police detectives and other formations of the Force to the mentioned places for the purpose of verification of the claim. No one confirmed the presence of such a group,” the statement read.
The police have urged residents to disregard the CJTF’s report, branding it “untrue” and “unfortunate.” They called on media outlets to exercise caution and resist publishing unverified reports that could jeopardize public peace.
“The media are enjoined not to allow the use of their very esteemed publications to incite fake news and outright falsehood that can jeopardize the peace and tranquillity being enjoyed in Lagos State,” the statement added.
Reassuring the public, the Command emphasized its unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety of all Lagosians and protecting lives and property across the state.
Residents are encouraged to go about their daily activities without fear, as the police continue to maintain strict security vigilance.
