Thursday, June 4, 2026

The Sun Nigeria

Police arrest 5 suspects for peddling fake news over abduction in A/ Ibom coastal community 

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From Isaac Job, Uyo

Akwa Ibom State Police command said it has arrested  five suspects in connection with virile fake reports  of kidnapping in Oron coastal community in Akwa Ibom state. 

 

The State commissioner of police, CP Baba Azare disclosed this  while briefing newsmen after a security meeting with youth Presidents and leaders across the 31 Local Government Areas of the State on Thursday

He described their actions as reckless,  dangerous and capable of inciting panic and undermining public peace in the state

He said, ” Five suspects who fabricated and circulated a false kidnapping incident involving students of Oron Secondary School have been arrested and were charged to court this morning. Their actions were reckless, dangerous and capable of inciting panic and undermining public confidence.”

 

Azare  assured the public that the Command will continue to take decisive action against anyone who spreads misinformation or attempts to destabilize the peace of the state.

He called on youth leaders to champion truth, promote responsible social media use, and counter false narratives capable of disrupting public order.

 

While emphasising the need for stronger collaboration with Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) to ensure early detection of threats and swift resolution of emerging issues, the CP urged the youths to prioritize dialogue rather than confrontation in their dealings with contractors and investors in their respective communities

 

He said, ”I urge you  to prioritize dialogue over confrontation, especially in engagements with investors, contractors, and development partners operating within your communities.Peaceful dialogue promotes development and fosters trust, while confrontational approaches undermine progress and tarnish community reputation.”

The CP further informed the youth leaders about Government’s directive confining masquerade activities strictly to the village or town hall squares across the state.

He clarified that in line with the law, any community wishing to hold masquerade activities must first seek formal permission from the Commissioner of Police, upon which the Police Command will provide adequate security to ensure peaceful and orderly conduct.

 

He cautioned that unauthorized masquerade outings will not be tolerated and urged the youth leaders to sensitize their communities accordingly.

The CP also issued a strong warning against jungle justice, describing the act as unlawful, barbaric, and capable of triggering widespread violence, emphasizing that no individual or group has the right to take the law into their own hands and warned that anyone found participating in mob action will be arrested and prosecuted.

Responding, a representatives of the youth leader from Eket Senatorial District Mr Ulap Afahakan,  appreciated the Commissioner of Police for his good leadership in maintaining peace/orderliness and tight security in the State.

He promised that youths would cooperate and support the Police to tackle insecurity in the state.