The Marine Police Unit of the Lagos State Police Command has foiled a suicide attempt by 23-year-old Joshua Babalola, who had reportedly jumped into the lagoon from the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos.

Reports said that at about 10:30 a.m. on June 8, 2026, officers of the unit was informed that a young man had jumped into the Lagos lagoon through the Third Mainland Bridge.

Arriving at the scene, the victim was rescued alive. He identified himself as a painter residing in Iwo Road, Oyo State. He said he left Ibadan on Monday morning, without the knowledge of anybody, to end his life due to poverty and hopelessness, adding that he lost his phone in the lagoon.

Spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, Abimbola Adebisi, confirmed the incident, saying that the victim had been stabilised and was currently in police custody while efforts to reach his relatives proved abortive.

“He was rescued with the help of fishermen in the area. He is the second person in three months to be rescued from the lagoon,” Adebisi said.

Calling for a greater cooperation and support from members of the communities, he said: “Effective policing thrives on partnership between the police and the public. Prompt and credible information from residents is crucial in preventing and combating incidents.

“We urge community leaders, boat operators, fishermen and other stakeholders in the riverine areas to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious persons, movements or activities to the nearest police formation or the marine police unit.”

Meanwhile, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Tijani Fatai, has commended Lagosians for their consistent cooperation, support and partnership with the police in maintaining peace and security across the state.

He acknowledged the critical role of residents in providing useful information and supporting law enforcement efforts, which have contributed significantly to the command’s successes. He appealed for greater collaboration and sustained support from all stakeholders as the police intensify efforts to rid the state of criminal elements and ensure the safety of all residents and visitors.

According to him, “The command will continue to deploy operational assets and personnel, including marine and aerial surveillance capabilities, to secure the waterways, while strengthening collaboration with the people to ensure that criminal elements have no safe haven within our riverine communities.” (The Guardian)

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