…warns prosecution of those paddling, spreading false information

Abia State Command of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has allayed fears of infiltration of over 400 Boko Haram members in the state.

The command also debunked arresting the said Boko Haram members, numbering 488, and warned that it would not hesitate to prosecute anyone or group of persons spreading fake news with the intent to cause fear and unrest in the state.

A statement issued on behalf of the state Commissioner of Police, CP Danladi Isa, by the Police Public Relations Officer, Maureen Chinaka, said, “The Abia State Police Command is aware of a video circulating on social media claiming that ‘488 Boko Haram members were arrested in Abia State.”

The Nation learnt that there had been rumours making the rounds that some suspected Boko Haram members had entered the state within the week, raising tension among residents, following recent kidnapping incidents attributed to being spearheaded by the Boko Haram insurgents.

“This claim is false, misleading, and intended to incite fear/unrest, as the video in question is an old broadcast from over 11 years ago and does not reflect the current security situation in Abia State.

“The Abia State Police Command, as the lead internal security agency, remains committed to its constitutional duty of protecting lives and property and sustaining the relative peace enjoyed in the State. Residents are advised to go about their lawful activities without fear.

“However, as partners in crime prevention, members of the public are urged to reject fake news by refraining from sharing or reposting unverified information and to rely only on credible sources for news and updates.

“The Commissioner of Police, Abia State Command, CP Danladi Isa, warns against the dissemination of false information intended to cause fear or civil unrest.

“Any individual found culpable will be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with Section 59 of the Criminal Code Act and the Cybercrime (Prohibition/Prevention) Act.” (The Nation)