Police arrest pastor, woman over false alarm on bandit attack in Oyo community

The Oyo State Police Command has detained two people for allegedly spreading false information about a supposed bandit attack in Lamini Community, Ido Local Government Area. Security officials say the attack never occurred.

The suspects, a pastor and a female resident, were taken into custody after police traced the source of reports claiming that six people had been killed during a bandit invasion of the community.

In a statement released on Monday, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, the Police Public Relations Officer, said the command reacted immediately after receiving reports that had circulated widely on WhatsApp and other social media platforms.

The messages alleged that armed bandits had stormed Lamini Community and killed six residents, creating anxiety among locals and raising concerns about security in the area.

Ayanlade said police operatives and tactical units were promptly deployed to the community to verify the claims and reassure residents.

Investigations, however, showed that no such attack had taken place.

The police spokesperson explained that intelligence gathering and forensic analysis led investigators to Pastor Amos Muyiwa, who was alleged to have recorded and shared the voice message. He reportedly admitted to circulating the information without confirming its accuracy.

Further inquiries linked the origin of the claim to a woman identified as Mulikat Bashiru, who was subsequently tracked down and arrested.

Police said both suspects are assisting investigators as efforts continue to determine whether other individuals played a role in creating or spreading the report.

The command warned against the circulation of unverified information, describing misinformation and disinformation as threats capable of undermining public safety and confidence.

Ayanlade noted that false security alerts can cause unnecessary panic, disrupt economic and social activities, and divert security personnel and resources from genuine emergencies.

He urged residents to verify sensitive information before sharing it, emphasizing the need for responsible use of social media, particularly on issues relating to public safety and security.