The Ogun State Police Command on Sunday dismissed widespread social media reports alleging that suspected kidnappers were arrested in Kanuyi Community, Simawa, describing the incident as a case of mistaken identity involving serving police officers.
The Command said the clarification became necessary following the circulation of videos and photographs portraying two officers as criminal suspects, a development that triggered public anxiety across parts of Ogun State.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, the Simawa Division received distress information around 11:00 a.m. on June 1, 2026, that two suspected kidnappers had been apprehended by residents of the community.
Police operatives were immediately deployed to the scene where the two individuals were rescued from an angry crowd and subsequently taken into protective custody for proper screening and investigation.
Preliminary findings later revealed that the men were serving officers attached to a Police Mobile Force Squadron in Lagos State and not kidnappers as widely alleged on social media.
The Command explained that the officers had reportedly lost their way while returning from an official assignment in Sagamu, a situation that aroused suspicion among residents who mistook them for criminal elements.
Further verification by the police confirmed their identities through official identity cards, deployment documents, uniforms and other service materials found in their possession.
Authorities also contacted their parent formation, which reportedly authenticated them as genuine personnel of the Nigeria Police Force engaged in lawful operational duties.
The police expressed concern that before operatives arrived at the scene, some residents had searched, photographed and recorded the officers, leading to the rapid spread of misleading narratives online.
Although the officers escaped physical assault, the Command lamented that the incident exposed them to emotional distress, public embarrassment and unwarranted suspicion despite their role in protecting lives and property.
The Command nevertheless commended residents for remaining vigilant and security conscious but warned against jungle justice, mob action and the circulation of unverified information capable of endangering innocent persons.
It noted that the development underscored the sacrifices and risks security personnel face daily while also highlighting the urgent need for stronger cooperation between citizens and law enforcement agencies in combating misinformation and insecurity.
Reaffirming its commitment to community policing, professionalism and public safety, the Ogun State Police Command urged residents to continue reporting suspicious activities through official channels while allowing security agencies to carry out proper verification and investigations before conclusions are drawn.