Two people have been confirmed dead after a man armed with a machete and knife stormed the IMAX Cinemas in Lekki, Lagos State, on Friday night.

The incident, which caused panic among cinema patrons and staff, occurred when the suspect allegedly tried to enter the premises but was stopped by security guards.

Eyewitnesses said the assailant, who appeared to be under the influence of drugs, turned violent after being prevented from entering.

Confirming the incident, Lagos State Police Command spokesperson SP Adebisi Abimbola said the suspect allegedly stabbed one security guard to death and injured another during the attack.

According to her, the suspect, who appeared to be destitute, was subsequently mobbed and died in the process.

“Two people have been confirmed dead,” Adebisi said, adding that the circumstances surrounding the incident were under investigation.

She explained that the identity of the assailant and the precise sequence of events leading to his death form part of the issues being examined by the police.

Adebisi further disclosed that the cinema’s Chief Security Officer had been taken into custody as investigations continued. 

Police are also working to obtain and review CCTV footage from the premises to establish what transpired and identify any other persons who may have been involved.

An investigation has been launched into the incident, she said, assuring that all relevant circumstances surrounding the deaths would be established.

The incident has raised concerns over security at entertainment and recreational facilities, particularly the ability of security personnel to detect and prevent dangerous individuals from gaining access to crowded premises.

As of the time of this report, the police had not disclosed the identities of the deceased or provided further details on the condition of the injured security guard. Investigation is ongoing. 

Click to signup for FREE news updates, latest information and hottest gists everyday
Advertise on NigerianEye.com to reach thousands of our daily users