By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Following rumours of the infiltration of terrorists into forests in Anambra State, the state Police Command under the leadership of Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has reassured the public especially residents of the state that it is not taking lightly the panic-inducing voice notes and unstable security messages currently circulating on social media by unidentified individuals.

It said that on the heels of panic raising messages, the Command has intensified security surveillance, strengthened visibility policing, and expanded routine and targeted patrols in all areas mentioned in the recordings.

A statement by the state Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, SP Tochukwu Ikenga on Sunday read in part, "Preliminary assessments indicate that these voice notes and social media messages lack verified credibility. However, the Command has adopted proactive measures to ensure that no security concern whether real or fabricated is left unattended.

"The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has further directed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, Tactical Units, and Joint Security Teams to remain on heightened alert, boost intelligence gathering, and sustain aggressive patrol operations both day and night.

"The Command subsequently urges residents of Anambra State to remain calm and continue their lawful activities without fear. Ndi Anambra are assured that Police operatives remain firm, vigilant, and fully committed to their constitutional mandate of protecting lives and property across the State."

The Command further advised the public to desist from circulating unverified messages capable of causing unnecessary panic, emphasizing that such actions may attract legal consequences.

It added: "For any security emergency or request for assistance, members of the public are encouraged to contact the Police through the following lines: Control Room Hotline: 07039194332 and Emergency Number: 112."