The Oyo State Police Command on Thursday dismissed as false reports circulating on social media that pupils and teachers abducted in parts of the state had regained their freedom.
The police described the claims as misleading and capable of undermining ongoing rescue operations, urging residents to disregard the information.
The victims were abducted from Ahoro, Esiele and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, sparking widespread concern over rising insecurity in the area.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, the command said there had been no confirmed development regarding the release of the victims.
“The command wishes to categorically debunk the viral messages currently circulating across various social media platforms alleging that the abducted pupils and teachers have been released,” the statement read.
“It is false, misleading and entirely unsubstantiated. As of now, there has been no such development.”
The police, however, assured families of the abducted victims and residents that intensive efforts were ongoing to secure their safe return.
According to the command, security operatives have continued to deploy resources and intelligence in a coordinated operation aimed at rescuing the victims and apprehending those behind the attack.
Ayanlade reiterated that the police and other security agencies remain committed to ensuring that the victims are rescued unharmed.
He warned against the spread of unverified information, noting that misinformation could heighten public anxiety, create panic and disrupt ongoing security efforts.
The command urged members of the public to rely only on official communication channels of the Nigeria Police Force and other authorised agencies for credible updates.
While appealing for calm, the police also called on residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information that could aid rescue operations.
The abduction, which occurred during coordinated attacks on the affected communities, has further intensified calls for improved security across the state, particularly in rural areas vulnerable to criminal activities.
FOLLOW US
FOR MORE HERE
