The Oyo State Police Command has arrested two individuals for allegedly spreading false information about a purported bandit attack in Lamini Community, Ido Local Government Area, which security authorities say never occurred.
The suspects identified as a pastor and a female resident, were taken into custody after police investigations traced the source of reports which claimed that six people had been killed during a bandit invasion of the community.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, said the command launched an immediate response after receiving reports that had circulated widely on WhatsApp and other social media platforms.
According to him, the messages alleged that armed bandits had stormed Lamini Community and killed six residents, triggering 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.
