IBADAN, OYO STATE – The Oyo State Police Command has arrested two suspects for allegedly circulating false information about a bandit attack in Lamini Community, Ido Local Government Area of the state.
The arrests followed an investigation into reports that caused panic among residents after claims of an armed bandit invasion spread across social media platforms.
According to the police, the information was found to be false and capable of inciting fear and disrupting public peace in the affected community.
The Oyo State Police Command, Nigeria Police Force, said the suspects were apprehended after intelligence-led operations traced the origin of the misleading reports.
Authorities stated that the false alert led to unnecessary tension among residents, prompting swift intervention to verify the situation and restore calm.
Police Condemn Misinformation
Security officials condemned the spread of unverified security alerts, warning that such actions could divert emergency resources and create panic in communities.
They stressed that misinformation about security incidents undermines public trust and complicates genuine security responses.
The command urged residents to rely only on verified communication channels when reporting or sharing information about security situations.
Public Advisory
The police further advised members of the public to exercise caution when sharing sensitive information online, particularly regarding security issues that could trigger fear or unrest.
Residents were encouraged to report suspicious activities directly to security agencies rather than circulating unconfirmed claims on social media.
Authorities noted that the spread of fake news remains a growing concern, especially in areas facing periodic security challenges.
Ongoing Efforts
The command assured that investigations are ongoing and that appropriate legal action will be taken against individuals found responsible for spreading false information.
It also reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace and preventing misinformation that could destabilize communities.
Outlook
Security agencies continue to emphasize the importance of responsible communication, warning that individuals who deliberately spread false security alerts will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
