Filmhouse Group has increased security across its locations following an attack at IMAX Cinemas in Lekki, Lagos State, that left two people dead.
The incident occurred on Friday night, August 29, when a man reportedly armed with a machete and knife stormed the cinema premises, triggering panic among patrons and workers.
According to reports, the suspect allegedly attempted to gain entry into the cinema but was stopped by security guards.
Eyewitnesses said the man became violent after he was prevented from entering the premises and allegedly attacked security personnel.
The Lagos State Police Command confirmed that the suspect allegedly stabbed one security guard to death and injured another during the incident.
Police spokesperson, SP Adebisi Abimbola, said the suspect was subsequently mobbed and died in the process.
“Two people have been confirmed dead,” Adebisi said, adding that the circumstances surrounding the incident were still being investigated.
She said the identity of the alleged assailant and the precise sequence of events leading to his death were among the issues being examined by the police.
Adebisi also disclosed that the Chief Security Officer of the cinema had been taken into custody as investigations continued.
She said the police were working to obtain and review CCTV footage from the premises to establish what transpired and determine whether other persons were involved.
Against the backdrop of the incident, Filmhouse Group said it was deeply saddened by the security breach, which it described as an incident that occurred outside its regular operations.
In a statement posted on its official X handle, the company said it was working closely with the relevant authorities leading the investigation and had introduced additional precautionary measures across its locations.
Filmhouse also commended two individuals who, according to the company, stood between the danger and people in their care, saying their bravery helped contain the situation and restore safety.
“Both individuals stood between danger and the people in their care, and it is through their bravery that the situation was contained and safety restored,” the company said.
It added that their commitment and courage during the incident would not be forgotten.
Filmhouse Group further assured customers and staff that their safety and wellbeing remained its highest priority.
The company said security had been increased and prioritised across all its locations, while it continued to monitor developments surrounding the incident.
Meanwhile, the police said investigations were ongoing, with the review of CCTV footage expected to help establish the full circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Boluwatife Enome
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