Police launch manhunt for woman allegedly behind false kidnap report in Edo

By Jethro Ibileke

The Edo State Police Command has debunked a report circulating on social media alleging that students of Green Park Academy, Aduwawa, Benin City, were kidnapped.

The Command’s spokesperson, Eno Ikoedem, said in a statement on Wednesday that the report, being propagated by a woman popularly known as “Azawoman”, had generated unnecessary concern among members of the public.

The statement described the alleged kidnap report as false, misleading and unfounded.

“Following a thorough verification and preliminary investigation by the Command, it has been established that no kidnapping incident occurred at the school as alleged.

“Findings reveal that the report is entirely false, lacks any factual basis, and was deliberately disseminated to misinform the public and create unwarranted panic within the state.

“The Command strongly condemns the reckless spread of false information capable of undermining public confidence, causing fear among residents, and diverting attention from genuine security concerns. Such actions constitute a threat to public order and will not be tolerated,” Ikoedem said.

Consequently, operatives of the Command have launched a manhunt for “Azawoman” with a view to apprehending her and prosecuting her in accordance with extant laws.

While urging members of the public to exercise restraint and responsibility in their use of social media by verifying information through credible and official sources before sharing it, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Monday Agbonika, encouraged residents to report security-related concerns through appropriate channels to enable prompt verification and response by law enforcement agencies.

He reassured residents that the security situation in the state remains under control and that the Command is committed to safeguarding lives and property.

Agbonika also expressed appreciation for the continued cooperation of law-abiding citizens and called for sustained support in the collective effort to maintain peace, security and public order across Edo State.