The Lagos State Police Command has deployed more gunboats and marine personnel for enhanced security around border riverine communities to prevent incursions through the waterways.

The deployment followed Monday’s invasion of a private dredging site in Karanla, Magbon area of Mowe, by gunmen who attacked through the waterways.

A soldier and five civilians were reportedly killed during the imvasion while another soldier and two policemen sustained varying injuries in the ensuing gunfire.

As a preventive measure, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police (CP) Tijani Fatai, said the command has reviewed security situation and made adequate deployments to keep the state impregnable.

CP Fatai said the command has increased visibility policing, interagency collaboration and intelligence gathering, assuring residents that the state was safe.

Addressing recent rumours about the presence of terrotists in Lagos, the police chief warned mischief makers to discontinue such fake news.

He particularly advised content creators to stop posting such information that creates panic among residents, warning that the command might go after purveyors of such fake news and negative contents.

“I want to use this opportunity to warn individuals against spreading false information, rumours or alarmist reports capable of creating panic among residents. Last week, there were several instances in which false claims circulated about the alleged infiltration of Lagos State by bandits.

“Nothing of that nature occurred, and such rumours only serve to create fear and anxiety within the public. Anyone found deliberately spreading false information or raising unnecessary alarm will face the full weight of the law,” the CP said.

CP Fatai recalled a recent incident where a teacher allegedly created content involving a simulated security incident with students and how it resulted in misunderstanding, and caused panic within the school community. “We are investigating the matter, and appropriate legal action will be taken if necessary. This serves as a warning to content creators. We are in a sensitive period, and issues relating to banditry, terrorism and public safety should not be used carelessly for content creation,” he added.

“The claim was later debunked, but the videos had already generated fear among residents. Such actions are irresponsible and will not be tolerated.

“I want to assure residents that there is no security threat of that nature in Lagos State. People should remain calm and go about their lawful activities.

“Lagos State enjoys one of the strongest levels of inter-agency collaboration in the country. We meet regularly with other security agencies to assess the situation and take necessary action whenever required.

“Our intelligence network is also very robust. We work closely with communities and rely heavily on intelligence gathering to prevent and respond to crime.

“Recent successful operations, including the rescue of kidnapping victims and the arrest of suspects, demonstrate the effectiveness of our intelligence system.

“We maintain a strong partnership with the NURTW. In fact, union leaders were in my office recently, and security issues formed a major part of our discussions.

“We specifically discussed the activities of commercial motorcycle operators and the need for unions to know their members, where they reside and the people they carry. “Transport operators have a responsibility to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies.

We will continue to engage and sensitise transport unions on measures needed to reduce security threats and improve public safety across Lagos State,” said the police boss. (The Nation)

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