Police Dismiss Bandit Attack Rumour in Oyo Communities
The Oyo State Police Command has dismissed reports of a bandit attack in Ogbomoso and nearby communities in Oyo State.
Police authorities said the panic was triggered by false information circulated around schools and neighbouring communities on Monday.
Panic Spread Across Ogbomoso
According to the police, fear spread across Ogbomoso, Ajaawa Town and surrounding areas following rumours that suspected bandits had invaded the vicinity of Are-Ago High School.
The command said security operatives were immediately deployed to assess the situation and prevent any breakdown of law and order.
Police spokesperson Ayanlade Olayinka stated that officers met with the school principal, Mrs. Akanbi Ruth, during investigations.
Police Explain Cause of False Alarm
The police said the alarm began after students reportedly noticed unfamiliar individuals near the school premises.
Preliminary findings later revealed that the individuals included an officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps attached to the Kwara State Command and two civilians travelling in a Toyota Venza SUV.
According to the statement, the visitors claimed they were in the area to celebrate a birthday with a female acquaintance.
No Security Breach Recorded
The Oyo State Police Command stressed that there was no bandit attack, invasion or security breach in the affected communities.
Authorities said normal academic, commercial and social activities had resumed after the situation was clarified.
The bandit attack rumour in Oyo communities comes days after a separate kidnapping incident in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
Recent School Attack Raised Tension
Last Friday, armed attackers reportedly abducted students and teachers from schools in Oriire Local Government Area.
The incident increased fears among residents and heightened public sensitivity to security-related rumours across the state.
Police warned residents against spreading unverified security reports, noting that false information could create unnecessary panic and disrupt public peace.
Police Warn Against Fake Security Reports
The command stated that individuals found deliberately spreading false information would face investigation and possible prosecution.
Oyo State Commissioner of Police, Abimbola Olugbemiga, urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies.
He also encouraged members of the public to report suspicious activities through official channels instead of sharing unconfirmed information online.