The Oyo State Police Command has debunked reports circulating on social media alleging that suspected Lukarawa terrorists have infiltrated forests around Ogbomoso and the Old Oyo National Park, describing the claims as false, misleading and capable of causing unnecessary panic among residents.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the Command said comprehensive intelligence assessments and security reports did not support the claims contained in a viral video and accompanying voice note alleging terrorist movements into the area.
According to the police, preliminary investigations revealed that the video being circulated is an old recording that has been deliberately recycled and misrepresented to create fear and apprehension among members of the public.
“The Command unequivocally rejects and dismisses the claims contained in the said video and voice note as false, misleading, and entirely without factual basis,” the statement said.
Despite dismissing the report, the police said intelligence and covert operatives have been strategically deployed to border communities and other vulnerable locations within the affected axis to reinforce existing security measures and strengthen early warning mechanisms.
The Command noted that the deployed operatives are collaborating closely with traditional institutions, local security structures, hunters, vigilante groups and community intelligence networks to enhance intelligence gathering and ensure swift responses to any emerging security threats.
It added that visibility policing, confidence-building patrols, intelligence-led stop-and-search operations and strategic deployments have also been intensified across Ogbomoso, the Old Oyo National Park corridor and adjoining border communities.
The police urged residents, particularly those living in rural and border communities, to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies through established emergency channels.
The Command also expressed concern over the growing spread of fake news and unverified security alerts on social media, warning that such reports could undermine public confidence, disrupt economic activities and divert security resources from genuine threats.
It stressed that the deliberate dissemination of false security information constitutes a criminal offence under existing laws and warned individuals involved in originating or sharing such content to desist immediately.
“The Nigeria Police Force, Oyo State Command, will leave no stone unturned in identifying, investigating, arresting and prosecuting any individual or group found culpable of spreading falsehoods capable of jeopardizing public peace and security,” the statement added.
The Command reassured residents that there is currently no credible intelligence indicating the presence or infiltration of the alleged terrorist group in Oyo State and advised citizens to go about their lawful activities without fear while relying only on verified information from official security agencies.
Residents were also urged to disregard the viral video and voice note in their entirety and continue supporting security agencies through responsible information sharing and vigilance.
