Police react to claims of helicopter supplying food to bandits in Kogi

The Nigeria Police Force has dismissed claims that one of its helicopters was used to supply food items to armed bandits in Kogi State, describing the viral video suggesting such as “false and misleading.”

In a statement issued on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, clarified that the incident captured in the circulating footage was actually a legitimate security operation conducted by joint forces on Saturday, May 10, 2025.

According to the police, the helicopter seen in the video was deployed to the Obajana axis of Kogi State to provide aerial support and surveillance for ground troops—including local vigilantes and hunters—who were engaged in a coordinated mission to flush out criminals in the area.

“The video in question depicts a legitimate security operation, not an illicit exchange,” Adejobi said. “The Nigeria Police helicopter was an operational asset, supporting the fight against banditry, kidnapping, and other crimes in the region.”

He urged the public to disregard the “unfounded and mischievous” interpretations of the video, warning against the spread of misinformation that could undermine national security efforts.

Adejobi also encouraged citizens to rely on official communication channels of the Nigeria Police Force for accurate and verified information about its activities.

“The Force remains fully committed to the protection of lives and property across the country and will continue to work with all relevant stakeholders to ensure public safety and national security,” the statement added.