The Osun State Police Command has dismissed reports circulating across parts of the state alleging that bandits had been sighted in several major towns, describing the claims as false and unfounded.
The State Police Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, made the clarification in an interview with Radio Nigeria in Osogbo, assuring residents that there was no security threat linked to the rumoured sightings.
Ojelabi urged members of the public to disregard the reports and continue with their lawful daily activities without fear or panic.
He cautioned against the spread of false information capable of creating tension and disrupting public peace, warning that anyone found responsible for disseminating fake security alerts would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The police spokesperson further disclosed that Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) across the state had been directed to intensify surveillance and strengthen security measures, particularly around schools and other vulnerable locations.
According to him, the command remains committed to ensuring the safety of residents and maintaining law and order across all parts of the state.
The clarification followed widespread tension that erupted earlier on Tuesday after unconfirmed reports claimed that suspected bandits had been sighted around Ila-Orangun and neighbouring communities.
The rumours reportedly prompted anxious parents to withdraw their children from schools as a precautionary measure.The panic also spread to several towns, including Iree, Eripa, Iragbiji, Ikirun, Obaagun and Ada, where residents expressed concerns over the alleged security threat.
The police, however, maintained that there was no verified intelligence indicating the presence of bandits in the affected areas and urged residents to rely on official security channels for credible information.