The Ekiti State Police Command has described as false and mischievous a social media report alleging that a bus conveying passengers from Ado-Ekiti was kidnapped along the Aramoko-Ekiti road on May 31.
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in the state, SP Sunday Abutu, made this known in a statement issued on Monday in Ado-Ekiti.
Abutu said the command swiftly deployed intelligence and tactical operatives to the area following receipt of the information to verify its authenticity and take necessary action if required.
According to him, investigations revealed that the report was entirely false and was deliberately fabricated by individuals seeking to create panic among residents and undermine the efforts of security agencies and the state government in maintaining public safety.
He noted that the command had observed a pattern of coordinated attempts by some individuals to spread false information relating to bandit attacks, kidnappings and other security incidents in the state.
The police spokesperson recalled that the state had recorded several cases of fake news and false security alarms in recent weeks, describing the trend as unacceptable and capable of causing unnecessary fear among the public.
Abutu urged residents with useful information about individuals involved in the creation and dissemination of fake news to report such persons to the police through the command’s emergency lines or official social media platforms.
He warned that the creation and circulation of false information constitute criminal offences and that anyone found culpable would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The command, therefore, called on members of the public to disregard the report, remain security conscious, verify information before sharing it, and continue with their lawful activities without fear.
Abutu also advised residents to promptly contact the police through the command’s emergency number, 08062335577, in the event of any security concern or emergency. )
