Osun Police warn against false bandits’ invasion reports

The Osun State Police Command has issued a stern warning against the spread of false reports claiming that bandits have invaded parts of the state.

In a statement released on Tuesday in Osogbo, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, spoke on behalf of Commissioner of Police CP Ibrahim Gotan. He said the command has closely monitored the circulation of these claims 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 warned that such reports can create unnecessary panic, fear and tension among residents, and urged 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 circulating claims.

“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.

He said, “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 remain on alert, with covert operatives and Violent Crime Response personnel deployed across the state, and encouraged the public to report suspicious movements or security concerns to the nearest police station for prompt action.