RismadarVoice Reporters
June 24, 2026
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has dismissed as false and misleading claims circulating on social media that a police officer was seen interacting with armed bandits in Katsina State.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Okokon Edem Iniedu, the Police clarified that the individuals featured in the viral video are not bandits but recognised members of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) and registered hunters working in support of security operations in parts of the state.
According to the statement, the volunteers are actively collaborating with security agencies in Musawa and Matazu Local Government Areas of Katsina State to combat criminal activities and enhance public safety.
The Force explained that the video captured a routine interaction between a police officer and the security volunteers as they were proceeding to a designated operational area in furtherance of ongoing security efforts.
It described allegations portraying the individuals as bandits as false, malicious and deliberately aimed at misleading the public.
The Police condemned what it termed the distortion of facts and the spread of misinformation capable of creating public anxiety, undermining confidence in security institutions and disrupting ongoing security operations.
The Force urged members of the public to disregard the narrative attached to the video and to rely only on information released through official channels of the Nigeria Police Force and other authorised government agencies.
It also warned individuals or groups involved in creating, publishing or disseminating false information capable of threatening public peace and security to desist, noting that offenders may face legal consequences.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to working with legitimate community-based security groups and other relevant stakeholders in efforts to safeguard lives and property and strengthen security across the country.
