The Nigeria Police Force has dismissed claims that a viral video circulating on social media showed police officers interacting with armed bandits in Katsina State.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Force described the allegation as false and misleading, insisting that the individuals seen in the footage were members of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) and registered hunters assisting security agencies in ongoing operations.
According to the police, the video captured a routine interaction between a police officer and the security volunteers as they travelled to an operational area in Musawa and Matazu Local Government Areas of Katsina State.
The Force said the volunteers are recognised community-based security personnel working in collaboration with law enforcement agencies to combat criminal activities and improve security in the area.
It maintained that reports identifying the individuals as bandits were inaccurate and intended to misinform the public.
The police further condemned the circulation of what it described as distorted and misleading information, warning that such claims could create unnecessary fear, undermine public confidence in security institutions and hamper ongoing security efforts.
The Force urged Nigerians to disregard the narrative attached to the video and rely on verified information from official police channels and authorised government sources.
It also warned against the spread of false information capable of threatening public peace and security, noting that those found responsible could face legal action.
Reaffirming its commitment to tackling crime, the Nigeria Police Force said it would continue to collaborate with legitimate community security groups and other stakeholders to enhance safety and protect lives and property across the country.
(The Whistler)
