Police dismiss kidnapping reports by Amira, 17 others in Abuja

CP Alabi Warns Purveyors Of Fake News

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has debunked the viral news of the alleged kidnapping of one Safiyanu Amira and 17 others, who were reportedly abducted at gunpoint by armed men in Police uniform on Tuesday, saying that Amira is currently safe in police custody.

The police said while Amira is currently in the hospital receiving medical attention as demanded by global best practices, the investigation continues and findings would be communicated subsequently.

The Commissioner of Police FCT Command, CP Babaji Sunday, while commending the gallantry of the Tactical and Investigative apparatus detailed on the case, appreciated the members of the public for their calm maintained and the various degrees of useful information given to the Police.

He enjoined the good people of the FCT not to relent in partnering with the police, especially towards the rendition of information, to remain vigilant, and report any suspicious or abnormal occurrence to the Police through the following emergency lines: 08032003913, 08061581938, 07057337653, and 08028940883, While the Public Complaint Bureau (PCB) desk, could be reached on: 0902 222 2352.

Recall that Amira, a twitter user, started trending on the microblogging platform on Tuesday after a screenshot of a broadcast message, alerting her WhatsApp contacts of her situation, which surfaced on the social media.

She had also tweeted saying, “We were abducted by people in Police Uniforms and a van from our houses from different parts of Abuja. We are 17 including three pregnant women and two little children.”

Meanwhile, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Abiodun Alabi, said he has observed with dismay repeated and concerted efforts by mischief makers to destabilise the peace and serenity enjoyed by the good people of Lagos State.

He said the mischief-makers and warmongers have devised ghoulish plans to release to the public at regular intervals concocted social media messages alleging stockpiling of arms and an impending attack on Lagos State.

He said all human, material and operational resources have been fully and optimally deployed across the length and breadth of the state towards ensuring there is absolutely no breach of the peace.

The state Police Spokesperson, SP Benjamin Hundeyin said the State Intelligence Bureau (SIB) of the Command have been placed on high alert alongside all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and Tactical Commanders, all in a bid to ensure that any possibly planned attack is promptly and decisively nipped in the bud.

“Consequent upon the carefully laid down security plans/strategies, all residents of Lagos State are urged to go about their lawful duties without panic or fear of harassment/intimidation. The CP equally enjoins Lagosians to remain very vigilant and report suspicious movements and persons to security agencies.