Police Dismiss Viral Katsina Banditry Claim, Say Armed Men in Video Are Security Volunteers

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 allegation as false and misleading.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Iniedu, stated that the individuals captured in the viral video are 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 police, the footage showed a routine interaction between a serving police officer and community security volunteers who were heading to a designated operational area in Musawa and Matazu Local Government Areas of Katsina State.

The Force said assertions that the individuals were bandits were inaccurate and designed to mislead members of the public.

"The individuals featured in the video are not bandits. They are duly recognised members of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria and registered hunters who are actively supporting ongoing security operations in collaboration with security agencies," the statement said.

Police authorities maintained that the interaction captured in the video formed part of ongoing collaboration between formal security agencies and community-based security groups involved in efforts to combat criminality and improve public safety.

The Force expressed concern over what it described as the deliberate distortion of facts surrounding the footage.

According to the statement, the circulation of unverified claims has the potential to create public anxiety, undermine confidence in security institutions and negatively affect ongoing security operations.

The police therefore urged members of the public to rely on information released through official channels and verified government sources when assessing security-related developments.

The Force also warned against the creation and dissemination of false information, saying individuals found deliberately spreading misinformation capable of threatening public peace or security could face legal consequences.

Community-based security initiatives have increasingly become part of security strategies in several states, particularly in areas affected by banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes.

The police reiterated their commitment to working with recognised local security stakeholders, including vigilante groups and registered hunters, as part of broader efforts to strengthen community policing and improve intelligence gathering.

Force Headquarters said it remains committed to protecting lives and property while continuing to collaborate with legitimate partners in the fight against crime across the country.