Jungle Justice Not the Solution, Lagos Police Issue Strong Warning
Kehinde Adeleye
The Lagos State Police Command has issued a strong warning to residents, urging them to stop engaging in jungle justice and instead allow the law to take its course.
The command stressed that taking matters into one’s hands is not only dangerous but also a criminal offence that could land those involved in serious legal trouble.
Speaking on the development, the Police Public Relations Officer, Abimbola Adebisi, said the warning became necessary following a rise in cases of mob attacks on suspected offenders.
According to her, while it may be tempting for people to react instantly when a crime is suspected, such actions only undermine the rule of law and can easily turn supposed victims into suspects.
She advised that whenever a suspect is caught, the proper step is to hand the person over to the nearest police station for investigation and due process.
Adebisi also appealed to Lagos residents to remain calm and law-abiding, noting that security agencies are in place to handle such situations professionally.
Addressing the common excuse that lack of trust in law enforcement pushes people toward mob action, she made it clear that the law does not support such behaviour under any circumstance.
She explained that unlawful killing, even in the name of punishment, is classified as murder under the law, and anyone involved could face the full weight of legal consequences.
In her words, what may start as an attempt to punish a suspect could end with those involved being charged in a homicide case.
She encouraged residents to report crimes promptly and allow the police to carry out their duties, rather than resorting to violence.
Emphasising collective responsibility, she urged Lagosians to educate one another and discourage jungle justice in their communities.
According to her, Lagos, being a major metropolitan city, should reflect a culture of law, order, and respect for due process.
The command therefore called on the public to support ongoing awareness efforts by rejecting mob action and promoting lawful ways of handling suspected criminal activities.
