The Oyo State Police Command has expressed deep concern over the circulation of what it described as false and misleading information regarding the recent abduction of school children and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
This was as it warned that individuals or group found spreading unverified reports could face legal consequences.
The Command specifically debunked a viral social media video claiming that the abducted pupils and teachers from Ahoro-Esiele and Yawota communities had been transported to Kaduna State by helicopter.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the Command categorically dismissed the claim as entirely false, unsubstantiated and lacking any credible evidence.
According to the police, the content of the video does not meet the required standard of authenticity expected in matters relating to public safety and security, particularly one as sensitive as the ongoing efforts to rescue abducted victims.
“The Command wishes to categorically state that the content of the said video is entirely false, unverified, misleading, and devoid of any factual basis.
“The claim lacks credibility, substance, and the requisite threshold of authenticity expected of information relating to such a sensitive security matter,” the statement read.
The police emphasized that rescue operations remain active and have been significantly intensified through collaboration with other security and intelligence agencies.
The Command assured residents that every available resource is being deployed to secure the safe release of the abducted children and teachers, reunite them with their families and bring the perpetrators to justice.
It noted that security personnel have continued to make sacrifices in the course of the operation and expressed disappointment that some individuals were deliberately spreading misinformation capable of undermining public confidence in ongoing efforts.
The statement described such actions as irresponsible, warning that false narratives could create unnecessary panic, mislead the public and potentially hinder security operations.
“The Oyo State Police Command is deeply concerned about the deliberate spread of misinformation and disinformation by certain individuals seeking to undermine public confidence in the ongoing rescue efforts and the sacrifices being made daily by security personnel working tirelessly to secure the release of the victims,” the Command stated.
The police further warned that those responsible for originating, promoting or circulating false information aimed at discrediting security institutions would be identified and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
It urged residents of Oyo State and the general public to remain calm, vigilant and supportive of security agencies, stressing the need to rely only on information released through official channels and verified sources.
The Command also advised citizens to refrain from sharing speculative or unconfirmed reports, noting that responsible information sharing is critical to the success of ongoing rescue operations.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives and property, the police assured residents that efforts to secure the safe return of the abducted school children and teachers remain a top priority.
The Command encouraged members of the public to report emergencies and credible security information through the Oyo State Call Response Centre toll-free line 615 or the Command’s control room numbers 08081768614 and 07055495413.