JUST IN: Lagos police dismiss school attack rumour, strengthen security across state

Crime Diary

LAGOS, Nigeria (NPA) — The Lagos State Police Command has reassured residents that there is no credible intelligence indicating any imminent attack on schools in the state following the circulation of a threatening notice allegedly warning of planned abductions of schoolchildren by bandits.

The Command said it became aware of reports concerning a notice purportedly pasted at a school, claiming that criminal elements intended to attack and abduct pupils.

In a statement issued on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, the Command urged parents, guardians, school authorities and residents not to panic, stressing that the threat has not been substantiated by intelligence findings.

“The Lagos State Police Command has seen reports of a threatening notice allegedly pasted at a school, claiming that bandits intend to attack and abduct schoolchildren,” the statement said.

“The Command wishes to reassure parents, guardians, school authorities and all residents that there is presently no verified intelligence indicating any imminent threat of such an attack within Lagos State.”

According to the police, every security concern is treated with utmost seriousness, and measures have already been activated to assess the situation and prevent any potential threat.

Commissioner of Police, CP Tijani Fatai, has directed an immediate security review and ordered enhanced protective measures around the affected area and other strategic locations across the state.

The Command said police officers, working in collaboration with other security agencies, have been deployed to strengthen security around schools, critical infrastructure and residential communities.

The police reiterated that Lagos remains secure and that authorities are committed to preventing criminal elements from infiltrating or operating within the state.

“The Command will not tolerate any attempt by miscreants, bandits, kidnappers or other criminal elements to threaten the peace and safety of residents,” the statement added.

The police warned that individuals found spreading fear, panic or insecurity through false information or criminal activities would be dealt with in accordance with the law.

Residents were encouraged to remain vigilant and continue supporting law enforcement agencies by providing timely and credible information on suspicious activities.

The Command emphasised that security remains a collective responsibility and urged members of the public to promptly report suspicious persons, movements or objects through the nearest police station or designated emergency lines.

The Lagos State Police Command assured residents that all necessary measures are being taken to safeguard lives and property and maintain peace across the state.