by Lovely Onohwakpor
Police Arrest Five for Circulating Fake Kidnapping Story in Akwa Ibom
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested five individuals accused of fabricating and spreading a false kidnapping report in Oron Local Government Area, a move authorities say was capable of triggering public panic and undermining peace.
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The Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State, Baba Azare, announced the arrest on Thursday during a security briefing with youth leaders and presidents from all 31 Local Government Areas. He said the suspects had circulated a fake story alleging the abduction of students from Oron Secondary School.
Azare condemned the act as irresponsible and dangerous, noting that the suspects were arraigned in court earlier in the day. “Their actions were reckless, dangerous and capable of inciting panic and undermining public confidence,” he said.
Reassuring residents of the command’s commitment to maintaining stability, the CP warned that anyone found spreading misinformation or attempting to destabilise the state would face decisive action.
He charged youth leaders to promote truth, responsible use of social media, and swift countering of false narratives. He also called for stronger collaboration with Divisional Police Officers to ensure early detection of threats and rapid intervention in emerging issues.
Azare encouraged the youths to adopt dialogue rather than confrontation, especially in engagements with contractors, investors, and development partners, stressing that peaceful approaches foster development and trust.
The Commissioner further reminded the gathering of the state government’s directive restricting masquerade activities to designated village or town hall squares. He said communities wishing to host such events must apply for formal approval from the Police Command to ensure proper security arrangements. Unauthorised outings, he added, would not be tolerated.
Azare also issued a stern warning against jungle justice, describing it as unlawful, barbaric, and capable of sparking wider violence. Anyone caught engaging in mob action, he said, would be arrested and prosecuted.
Speaking on behalf of youth leaders from the Eket Senatorial District, Mr. Ulap Afahakan commended the Commissioner for his efforts in sustaining peace and security in the state and pledged continued cooperation with the police in combating insecurity.
