The Kogi State Police Command has dismissed viral social-media claims of bandit invasions in several Lokoja communities, calling them “fake news” and warning that those spreading false alarms will be prosecuted.
The Kogi State Police Command has refuted widely circulated social-media reports alleging bandit invasions in Zango, Crusher and Felele communities in Lokoja, describing the claims as “fake news” aimed at causing panic.
In a statement, spokesperson William Aya said the Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi, has warned rumour-mongers to stop spreading “false alarms” that create fear among residents, adding that “anyone found guilty of spreading false alarms will be arrested and prosecuted accordingly.” He noted that security personnel, including Police Mobile Force and Counter-Terrorism Units, have been deployed to key areas, urging residents to continue their normal activities and report suspicious behaviour because “security is a shared responsibility.” The command also recently dismissed similar unverified claims about alleged bandit movements targeting schools and worship centres.