A viral video alleging that ritual killings and human parts trading were taking place inside the popular Thirty 8 Restaurant on Airport Road, Lagos, has triggered widespread panic and a swift response from security operatives. The Lagos State Police Command has now launched a manhunt for the unidentified woman who made the claims, describing her allegations as “false, baseless, and malicious.”
The video, which circulated heavily on social media on Wednesday night, showed a woman driving past the restaurant while narrating that she was once locked inside its restroom. She went further to brand the eatery a “dungeon,” alleging that “a lot of people are killed there and their parts are sold.” The clip immediately went viral, sparking fear among Lagos residents and heated debates online.
Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, said on Thursday that a detailed investigation was ordered by Commissioner of Police Olohundare Jimoh. The probe, led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police, State CID, reportedly confirmed that nothing incriminating was found at the restaurant. “The claims are entirely false and without merit. Members of the public should disregard this viral video,” Hundeyin stressed.
The Lagos police also warned that spreading such unverified allegations could incite panic and threaten public peace. The command further revealed that efforts were underway to track down the woman behind the video, assuring that anyone found culpable in spreading fake news would face the full weight of the law.
Authorities expressed concern that the “ritual killing” claim, though unfounded, could damage the reputation of legitimate businesses. Security analysts also noted that similar viral hoaxes in the past had led to mob attacks and destruction of property, underscoring the dangers of misinformation in a highly volatile environment like Lagos.
The police have now appealed to members of the public with credible information on the identity of the woman to assist the investigation. They provided hotlines — 09111111150 and 09111111151 — assuring that all information will be treated confidentially.
“The Lagos State Police Command remains committed to ensuring the safety of all residents and businesses. We urge Lagosians to fact-check information before sharing and help curb the spread of fake news that could cause chaos,” the statement concluded.
