THE Osun State Police Command has issued a strong warning against the circulation of false and misleading reports alleging bandits’ invasion in parts of the state.
The Command in a statement issued on Tuesday in Osogbo on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Gotan by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, said the it has observed with concern the spread of the reports on social media and other communication platforms.
According to the statement, “the allegations of banditry attacks in some communities were not supported by available intelligence and security assessments conducted by the command.”
The police said the reports were capable of causing unnecessary panic, fear and tension among residents, urging members of the public to disregard unverified security alerts.
The statement noted that extensive intelligence gathering and security assessments carried out by the Command had not substantiated the claims being circulated.
“The Command wishes to state unequivocally that these reports are unfounded, misleading, and capable of causing unnecessary panic, fear, and tension among law-abiding residents,” the statement said.
CP Gotan warned individuals and groups involved in the deliberate creation, publication and dissemination of false security information to desist immediately.
Gotan stated that “the spread of unverified information undermines public confidence and poses a threat to public peace and security across the state.”
He advised residents to verify security-related information through official channels before sharing it, adding that anyone found spreading false information capable of causing public disorder would be investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The Command reassured residents of its commitment to protecting lives and property, urging them to remain calm, vigilant and continue their lawful activities without fear.
It added that security agencies had remained on alert, with covert operatives and Violent Crime Response personnel deployed across the state, while members of the public were encouraged to report suspicious movements or security concerns to the nearest police station for prompt action.