Oyo Police break silence on viral kidnap report, reveal truth

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

The Oyo State Police Command has debunked a widely circulated report purporting to contain operational details of the recent abduction incident in Ahoro-Esiele, Oriire Local Government Area, describing the publication as misleading, speculative and capable of undermining ongoing investigations.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Command said it had become aware of the viral publication, which allegedly contained detailed information on the identities of suspects, intercepted communications and financial transactions linked to the kidnapping case.

However, the police maintained that the information did not originate from any official security source and should not be regarded as an authentic account of the ongoing investigation.

The Command stressed that the report was neither an official security document nor a communication issued by any agency involved in the probe.

According to the statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, investigations into the abduction remain active, sensitive and intelligence-driven.

The police noted that operational details, identities of suspects, investigative leads and financial intelligence connected to the case are confidential and protected to prevent interference with security efforts and to ensure the successful apprehension of those responsible.

“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 said.

The Command warned bloggers, online publishers and members of the public against disseminating unverified information capable of misleading residents, creating unnecessary panic or jeopardising ongoing security operations.

It further cautioned that individuals or groups found deliberately circulating false information, obstructing investigations or interfering with security activities could face legal consequences.

“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 police urged residents to rely solely on official communication channels for updates on the Ahoro-Esiele abduction case and other security-related matters in the state.

While reassuring residents of its commitment to public safety, the Command pledged to sustain efforts aimed at identifying, arresting and prosecuting all those connected with the crime.

The latest warning comes amid growing concerns over the spread of unverified security information on social media platforms, a trend security experts say can complicate investigations and hamper law enforcement operations.

The Command also encouraged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities through its emergency lines and the Oyo State Call Response Centre while investigations continue.