The Lagos State Police Command has dismissed as false and misleading reports alleging that late Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Khan Salihu was kidnapped by suspected criminals before his death.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, said the senior officer was never abducted at any time prior to his demise, describing the report as a complete fabrication.

According to the command, Salihu had briefly complained of feeling unwell and was immediately rushed to a hospital for urgent medical attention. However, doctors reportedly confirmed him dead on arrival.

The police expressed concern over what it described as an unverified and irresponsible publication by a media organisation, accusing it of breaching professional journalistic standards and causing unnecessary distress to the deceased officer’s family, friends, and colleagues.

The command noted that the report was particularly insensitive given that loved ones and colleagues were still mourning the loss of the senior officer, whom it described as dedicated and accomplished.

It demanded an immediate withdrawal of the story, as well as a public correction and apology from the media outlet involved.

The command also urged members of the public to disregard the report and rely only on information released through official police channels, reiterating its commitment to combating misinformation and providing accurate information to the public.