Jungle justice is a criminal offence — Lagos police warn residents
Lagos Police Warn Against Jungle Justice, Stress Legal Consequences
LAGOS, Nigeria – The Lagos State Police Command issued a firm warning to residents against engaging in jungle justice, highlighting that taking the law into one’s own hands is a criminal act that may result in severe legal repercussions.
In a public service announcement, Police Public Relations Officer Abimbola Adebisi emphasized that members of the community should report suspects to law enforcement instead of resorting to mob violence. The statement comes amid a rise in unlawful assaults on suspected offenders.
“Mob justice undermines the rule of law and can turn individuals taking such actions into suspects in serious criminal cases,” Adebisi stated. “The Lagos State Police Command strongly condemns all forms of mob action. Taking the law into your hands is a criminal act and undermines the rule of law.”
Adebisi advised that when suspects are apprehended, they should be handed over to the nearest police station for proper investigation and adherence to due process. She reiterated the importance of remaining law-abiding and allowing security agencies to fulfill their duties without public interference.
“The Command urges residents to support the police and other relevant authorities in carrying out their lawful functions,” she said. “Together, we can protect lives, uphold justice, and build a safer Lagos.”
Addressing the prevalent belief that distrust in law enforcement propels individuals toward taking matters into their own hands, Adebisi shared that the law is explicit regarding unlawful killings, which constitute murder. “Those who act out of distrust may find themselves charged with homicide,” she warned. “It is crucial to inform the police and let the law take its course.”
Adebisi encouraged residents to promote lawful behavior and community vigilance, remarking on Lagos’s progress as a metropolitan city. “We are developed and educated, and now is the time for us to communicate effectively to ensure we do the right thing,” she stated.
The police command urged the public to support ongoing awareness initiatives, mobilizing efforts to discourage mob action and encourage reporting of suspected offenses to law enforcement for investigation and prosecution.
