The Oyo State Police Command has arrested two individuals for allegedly spreading false information claiming that bandits invaded Lamini Community in Ido Local Government Area and killed six residents.
According to the police, a voice note widely circulated on WhatsApp and other social media platforms alleged that armed bandits attacked the community, causing panic and fear among residents.
The Command said it immediately deployed patrol and tactical teams to Lamini Community to verify the report and reassure residents. Following investigations and on-the-ground assessments, security operatives confirmed that no such attack occurred and that the report was entirely false.
Acting on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, the State Intelligence Department launched a comprehensive investigation to trace the source of the misinformation.
Investigations reportedly identified Pastor Amos Joel Muyiwa as the author and distributor of the voice note. He was subsequently arrested and, during interrogation, allegedly admitted to circulating the message without verifying its authenticity.
Further inquiries revealed that the false claim originated from one Mulikat Bashiru, who was later traced and arrested by the police.
The Command stated that both suspects are currently assisting investigators as efforts continue to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident and identify any other persons involved in spreading the false report.
The police condemned the deliberate dissemination of fake news, misinformation and disinformation, describing it as a serious threat to public order, security and peaceful coexistence.
According to the Command, false reports can trigger panic, undermine public confidence, disrupt economic activities and divert security resources from genuine emergencies.
Residents were advised to verify information through credible and official sources before sharing it on social media or other communication platforms.
The police warned that anyone found deliberately creating or circulating false information capable of causing public disorder would be investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
