Filmhouse confirms machete attack at Lekki IMAX, strengthens security

Filmhouse Group, an entertainment company that operates cinema and film exhibition outlets, has confirmed an attack at its IMAX Cinemas in Lekki, Lagos State.

The attack occurred on Friday and left two dead after a man, reportedly armed with a machete and knife, stormed the cinema, causing panic among patrons and staff.

Security guards reportedly stopped the suspect as he attempted to enter the premises. He allegedly became violent after they denied him access and attacked the security personnel.

In a statement posted on Instagram on Saturday night, the company confirmed the incident and expressed sadness over the deaths.

“Filmhouse Group is deeply saddened by a security incident that took place outside the premises, in the car park of one of our locations, in the early hours of this morning. The incident was unrelated to our regular operations.

“We are working closely with the relevant authorities, who are leading the ongoing investigation, and have taken additional precautionary measures across our locations”, said the company.

Security

Furthermore, the company said it would strengthen and prioritise security measures across all its locations following the incident.

It said the safety of its guests and everyone within its premises remained its top priority.

The company noted, “The security team stood between danger and the people in their care, and it is through their bravery that the situation was contained and safety restored. Their commitment and courage in that moment will not be forgotten.

“The safety and well-being of our staff and guests remain our highest priority. Security across all our locations has been increased and prioritised, and the safety of our guests and everyone within our premises remains of the utmost importance to us. We continue to monitor the ongoing situation.”

Investigation ongoing

Meanwhile, in its Sunday report, Arise News stated that the Lagos State Police Command spokesperson, Adebisi Abimbola, confirmed the incident and said the suspect allegedly killed one security guard and injured another during the attack,

According to Ms Abimbola, a mob later overpowered and killed the suspect as police began investigating the incident. “Two people have been confirmed dead,” she said.

READ ALSO: Two dead after machete attack at Lagos cinema

She said police were working to identify the alleged assailant and piece together the events that preceded his death.

Ms Abimbola also said officers had taken the cinema’s Chief Security Officer into custody to assist with the investigation.

She added that the command would obtain and review CCTV footage from the premises to determine the sequence of events and establish whether anyone else participated in the attack.