… Command says viral claim is false, warns against misinformation as rescue operation continues.
The Oyo State Police Command has dismissed reports claiming a pastor was arrested for allegedly supplying arms and ammunition to kidnappers responsible for the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.
The command described the reports, which have circulated on social media and some online platforms, as false, misleading, and completely unfounded.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, said a viral Facebook post alleged that a pastor had been arrested for acting as a gunrunner for the kidnappers but failed to provide the cleric’s name, address, or any verifiable details.
According to the police, no such arrest has been made by the Oyo State Police Command or any other security agency involved in the ongoing rescue operation.
“The Command wishes to categorically state that this claim is entirely false, misleading and unfounded,” the statement read.
The police further alleged that the publication was intended to distract security operatives from ongoing efforts to rescue the abducted victims and undermine public confidence in law enforcement agencies.
“The Command views this publication as a deliberate attempt to distract security operatives from ongoing rescue efforts and to cast doubt on the integrity, commitment and professionalism of personnel working tirelessly to ensure the safe return of the victims,” the statement added.
The command urged residents to ignore the report and rely only on information released through its verified communication channels.
It also warned individuals and media platforms against spreading unverified information capable of jeopardising security operations, stressing that anyone found deliberately circulating false information would be identified, investigated, arrested, and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The Oyo State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to rescuing the abducted pupils and teachers safely while maintaining peace and security across the state.