NIGERIA: Police Debunks Claims Of Supplying Bandits In Viral Helicopter Video

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria 

The Nigeria Police Force has debunked viral claims alleging that a police helicopter was used to deliver food items to armed bandits in Kogi State, clarifying that the incident captured in the trending video was part of a coordinated security operation.

In a press statement released on Tuesday signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force described the circulating narrative as “misleading and false,” stressing that the video in question showed a legitimate security mission involving joint forces, not the aiding of criminal elements.

The statement read: “The operation in question was carried out on Saturday, 10th May, 2025, by joint security forces including local vigilante groups and hunters at the Obajana axis of Kogi State. The police helicopter was deployed as part of the mission to provide aerial support and surveillance to ground forces involved in the tactical operation.”

The footage, which surfaced on social media earlier this week, shows a helicopter landing and taking off in what appears to be a remote area with armed men nearby, sparking widespread speculation that the aircraft was delivering supplies to bandits. However, the Police Force has firmly denied these claims.

ACP Adejobi emphasized that the video should be understood within the context of ongoing anti-crime efforts in the region.

Adejobi noted: “Contrary to the misleading and false narrative suggesting that the aircraft was used to deliver food items to bandits, the Force categorically states that the video captures a legitimate security operation.”

He urged the public to disregard the “unfounded and mischievous claims” being circulated and to rely solely on official communication from the Nigeria Police Force for verified updates on security matters.

The statement concluded: “The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to safeguarding the lives and property of all Nigerians and will continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to enhance public safety and national security.”