Oyo Police dismiss viral kidnap report, warn against spread of false security information

The Oyo State Police Command has refuted a widely circulated report claiming to reveal operational details surrounding the recent abduction incident in Ahoro-Esiele, Oriire Local Government Area of the state, describing the publication as false, speculative and potentially harmful to ongoing security operations.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Command expressed concern over the viral report, which allegedly contained sensitive information, including the identities of suspected kidnappers, intercepted communications and details of financial transactions purportedly linked to the case.

According to the police, the publication did not emanate from any official security source and should not be regarded as an authentic account of the ongoing investigation into the abduction.

The Command stressed that the report was neither an official security document nor a communication released by any agency involved in the investigation, warning that such unverified publications could compromise efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice.

The statement, signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, noted that investigations into the Ahoro-Esiele kidnapping remain active, intelligence-driven and highly sensitive.

The police explained that details relating to suspects, operational strategies, investigative leads and financial intelligence are deliberately kept confidential to preserve the integrity of the investigation and prevent criminal elements from exploiting leaked information.

“As is standard practice in matters of this nature, operational details, identities of suspects, investigative leads and financial intelligence components are strictly protected to safeguard ongoing efforts, prevent compromise of field operations and ensure successful apprehension of all perpetrators,” the statement read.

READ ALSO: Police rescue Adelabu’s sister, twin sons as two suspected kidnappers killed in gun battle

The Command warned bloggers, social media users, online publishers and members of the public against the dissemination of unverified security-related information, noting that such actions could mislead residents, create unnecessary panic and undermine law enforcement activities.

Police authorities further cautioned that individuals or groups found deliberately spreading false information, obstructing investigations or interfering with security operations would face the full consequences of the law.

“The Oyo State Police Command will not hesitate to apply the full weight of the law against any individual or group found deliberately circulating false information, interfering with investigations, or attempting to obstruct ongoing security operations,” the statement added.

The Command urged residents to rely exclusively on official communication channels for updates regarding the Ahoro-Esiele abduction case and other security matters within the state.

Reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives and property, the police assured residents that efforts are ongoing to identify, track, arrest and prosecute all individuals connected to the kidnapping incident.

The warning comes amid growing concerns over the increasing spread of unverified security reports on social media platforms.

Security analysts have repeatedly warned that the circulation of inaccurate information during sensitive investigations can hamper intelligence-gathering efforts, compromise operational plans and embolden criminal elements.

As investigations continue, the police encouraged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious movements and activities through designated emergency lines and the Oyo State Call Response Centre.

The Command reiterated that public cooperation, responsible information sharing and adherence to official updates remain crucial in supporting ongoing efforts to combat crime and enhance security across the state.