The Edo State Police Command has debunked reports alleging that bandits and kidnappers abducted school children in parts of the state, describing the claim as false, misleading and capable of causing unnecessary panic among residents.
The Command announced the arrest of one Ernest Ugbomoiko, 42, of Afuze Community, who was identified as the source of the viral report alleging that students were kidnapped in Afuze, Ehor, Otuo, Agbede and Igueben.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikedem, said investigations revealed that no such incident occurred in any of the communities mentioned or elsewhere in Edo State.
The police said the false alarm generated anxiety among residents and sought to undermine public confidence in ongoing security efforts across the state.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, reassured parents, guardians, school administrators and students that schools across Edo remain safe and adequately protected.
He clarified that the deployment of security personnel to schools and other vulnerable locations was not triggered by the false report but formed part of the Command’s proactive policing strategy.
According to the statement, the security measures have since been intensified across the state on the directive of the Commissioner of Police to further strengthen public safety.
The police urged residents to disregard the rumour and continue their lawful activities without fear, assuring them that adequate security arrangements remain in place to safeguard lives and property.
The Command also warned that individuals who deliberately spread false information capable of threatening public peace, disrupting security operations or causing public disorder would be investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
It further advised members of the public to verify security-related information through official channels before sharing such reports.
The statement reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to maintaining security across Edo State and ensuring that schools remain safe environments for learning.
