Lagos Police Debunk Kidnap Claims, Confirm DCP Khan Salihu Died After Brief Illness
The Lagos State Police Command has dismissed widespread social media reports alleging that its Deputy Commissioner of Police (Finance and Administration), DCP Khan Salihu, was kidnapped before his death, describing the claims as false, misleading, and a painful distortion of the facts.
The Command clarified that the senior police officer died on Monday, June 15, 2026, following a brief illness and not as a result of any criminal incident, as falsely portrayed in online publications.
According to the Lagos State Police Command, DCP Salihu had reported to work before complaining of feeling unwell. He was subsequently rushed to a hospital for urgent medical attention, where doctors sadly confirmed him dead.
In a statement signed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, the police categorically denied reports suggesting that the deceased officer was abducted or kidnapped at any point before his demise.
“The Command wishes to state categorically that prior to his passing, DCP Khan Salihu briefly complained of feeling unwell and was immediately rushed to the hospital for urgent medical attention. Sadly, upon arrival, medical doctors confirmed him dead,” the statement read.
“At no time was he abducted, kidnapped, or involved in any incident remotely connected to criminal activity as falsely portrayed in the publication,” the Command added.
The police expressed concern over what it described as the reckless spread of unverified information, noting that the false reports had compounded the grief of the late officer’s family, friends, and professional colleagues.
Describing the publication as a serious breach of responsible journalism, the Command lamented that the misinformation had caused unnecessary public confusion and emotional distress during a period of mourning.
“The publication is not only inaccurate but also insensitive, particularly at a time when the Command, family members, and loved ones are mourning the loss of a dedicated and accomplished senior police officer who served the nation with distinction,” the statement noted.
The Lagos Police Command has therefore demanded the immediate withdrawal of the report and called on the media organisation responsible to issue a public correction and apology in the interest of truth, professionalism, and accountability.
The Command further urged members of the public to disregard the false reports and rely only on information released through its official communication channels.
DCP Khan Salihu, described by colleagues as a loyal, respectful, and dedicated officer, was buried on Tuesday in accordance with Islamic rites.