2 police officers narrowly escape mob lynching after they were wrongly accused of being kidnappers

Tuesday, June 2, 2026 - The Ogun State Police Command has reacted to online reports alleging the apprehension of suspected k!dnappers in Kanuyi Community, Simawa, Ogun State.

The command's spokesperson, DSP Babaseyi Oluseyi, says the clarification became necessary following information received by the Simawa Division on 1st June 2026 at about 11:00 a.m. that two suspected criminals had been apprehended by members of the community. 

He mentioned that upon receipt of the report, police operatives were immediately mobilized to the scene, where the individuals were rescued from an agitated crowd and taken into protective custody for proper identification and investigation.

Babaseyi said that preliminary investigation revealed that the individuals were serving police officers attached to a Police Mobile Force Squadron in Lagos State. He added that further findings established that the officers had inadvertently lost their way while returning from an official duty post in Sagamu and were consequently mistaken for suspected k!dnappers by some members of the public.

He added that verification conducted by the Command confirmed their identities through valid police identity cards, official deployment documents, uniforms, and other service materials. Their parent formation also authenticated their status as bona fide members of the Nigeria Police Force engaged in lawful duties.

The command further discovered that before the arrival of police operatives, the officers had been searched, photographed, and video-recorded by some members of the public, leading to the circulation of misleading content on social media. 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.

Babaseyi mentioned that the Ogun State Police command appreciates the vigilance of residents and their readiness to support security efforts. However, the Command urges members of the public to exercise caution, avoid mob actions, and allow security agencies to verify facts before drawing conclusions or circulating information capable of endangering innocent persons.