A viral video alongside a claim that bandits and kidnappers have received arms supply and new hunting tools from an helicopter has circulated online.
In the 44-second footage shared by an X user, @ubasinachimbia, some people could be seen in a forest-like setting with some motorcycles sighted in the background while an helicopter could be seen landing and taking off.
DON’T MISS THIS: Video of ‘Boko Haram terrorists getting arms supply by air’ resurfaces online
The caption posted alongside the video read:
The video post has garnered over 270,000 views, plus over 2,300 likes and more than 2,600 reposts as of May 16, 2025.
The claim was also seen on Instagram here and here.
CLAIM
Video shows bandits getting arms supply.
THE FINDINGS
Checks by The FactCheckHub show that the claim is MISLEADING!
Our fact-checker observed that the activities captured in the video were largely those of spectators, and it is likely that, had supplies actually been delivered, the individuals present would have rushed to collect them.
READ THIS: Has Nigeria failed to acquire arms since 1982, as claimed by Dan-Ali?
When she broke the video down into keyframes for analysis, it was discovered that the same visuals had appeared in other contexts where similar claims had been made, including an instance where the video was featured in a news report.
The report revealed the Nigeria Police Force’s (NPF) response to the viral claim, noting that the individuals seen in the footage were not bandits receiving supplies.
The NPF’s spokesperson, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in a statement on May 13, 2025, explained that the helicopter was deployed as part of a legitimate security operation conducted on Saturday, May 10, 2025, in the Obajana area of Kogi State, Nigeria.
He dismissed claims that the aircraft was used to deliver food items to bandits, describing the narrative as false and misleading.
“Contrary to the misleading and false narrative suggesting that the aircraft was used to deliver food items to bandits, the Force categorically states that the video captures a legitimate security operation.
“The operation in question was carried out on Saturday, 10th May, 2025, by joint security forces including local vigilante groups, and hunters at the Obajana axis of Kogi State. The operation was part of sustained efforts to combat banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of criminality within the region.
“The police helicopter was deployed as part of the mission to provide aerial support and surveillance to ground forces involved in the tactical operation.
ALSO READ: No, Video does not show Palestinian fighters shooting Israeli helicopters
“The Force hereby urges members of the public to disregard the unfounded and mischievous claims surrounding the viral video. Citizens are encouraged to rely solely on official police communication channels for accurate and verified information regarding security activities.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to safeguarding the lives and property of all Nigerians and will continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to enhance public safety and national security,” the statement read.
Seasoned fact-checker and researcher Fatimah Quadri has written numerous fact-checks, explainers, and media literacy pieces for The FactCheckHub in an effort to combat information disorder. She can be reached at sunmibola_q on X or fquadri@icirnigeria.org.
