BY SUNDAY SAMUEL—The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has dismissed claims circulating on social media that a police officer was seen interacting with armed bandits in Katsina State, describing the narrative attached to a viral video as false and misleading.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Force clarified that the individuals captured in the video were not bandits but recognized members of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) and registered hunters assisting security agencies in ongoing operations within Musawa and Matazu Local Government Areas of the state.
According to the police, the footage showed a routine engagement between a police officer and the security volunteers as they moved to an assigned operational location to support efforts aimed at tackling crime and improving public safety.
The Force stated that allegations suggesting any form of collaboration between the officer and criminal elements were unfounded and intended to misinform the public.
The police condemned what it described as the deliberate spread of false information capable of creating unnecessary fear, weakening public confidence in security institutions and disrupting ongoing security operations.
The NPF urged members of the public to disregard the claims associated with the video and rely on information released through official police channels and other authorized government sources.
It also warned individuals and groups involved in producing or sharing misleading content that threatens public peace and security to desist, noting that legal action could be taken against offenders.
The Force reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with legitimate community security groups and other stakeholders to strengthen security efforts, protect lives and property, and combat criminal activities across the country.
The statement was signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Okokon Edem Iniedu, and dated June 24, 2026.
