Police arrested two persons for spreading fake news on bandits attack in Lamini Community in Oyo State.

The Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Oyo State Command, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, in a statement, indicated that the two individuals were arrested for originating and circulating false information that bandits invaded Lamini Community in Ido Local Government Area of the state and killed six residents.

The PPRO disclosed that a voice note, widely shared on WhatsApp and other social media platforms, alleged that armed bandits had attacked the community, triggering fear, panic, and tension among residents and the general public.

According to the police, security operatives were immediately deployed to Lamini Community and surrounding areas to verify the report and reassure residents.

However, investigations and on-the-ground assessments revealed that the alleged attack never occurred.

Following the findings, the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, directed the State Intelligence Department, SID, to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the source of the false alarm.

The police said intelligence investigations, supported by forensic analysis, traced the voice note to Pastor Amos Joel Muyiwa, who was subsequently arrested.

During interrogation, the suspect reportedly admitted to creating and circulating the voice note without verifying the authenticity of the information.

Further investigations identified one Mulikat Bashiru as the originator of the unfounded claim within the community. She was later traced and arrested in connection with the incident.

The Command stated that both suspects are currently cooperating with investigators, while efforts continue to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the case and identify any other persons involved in spreading the false information.

The Police Command described the deliberate spread of fake news, misinformation, and disinformation as a serious threat to public order, national security, and peaceful coexistence.

According to the police, false reports have the potential to create panic, undermine public confidence, disrupt socio-economic activities, and divert security resources from genuine emergencies.

The Command further warned that the circulation of misleading information could weaken public trust and provide opportunities for criminal elements to exploit fear and confusion within communities.

Residents were, therefore, urged to exercise caution and responsibility when using social media and other communication platforms, by verifying information through credible and official sources, before sharing it.

The police also warned that individuals found deliberately creating or disseminating false information capable of causing public disorder would be investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law.