The Kogi State Police Command has dismissed social media reports alleging that bandits have invaded the Zango, Crusher, and Felele areas of Lokoja.
In a statement on Thursday, the command’s spokesperson, William Aya, described the claims as “fake news” intended to cause unnecessary panic among residents.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi, has warned those peddling rumours of bandit invasion to desist from spreading false alarms that create fear and tension in the state,” Aya said. “Anyone found guilty of spreading such falsehoods will be arrested and prosecuted.”
He added that security personnel, including the Police Mobile Force and Counter-Terrorism Units, have been deployed to strategic locations to maintain public safety.
Aya urged residents to continue their daily activities without fear and to report suspicious movements to the authorities, noting that security is a shared responsibility requiring the cooperation of all citizens.
The command also noted that similar unverified claims of planned bandit attacks have been circulating on social media. On Monday, it refuted reports alleging heavy movement of bandits in the eastern part of the state targeting schools and worship centres, insisting the allegations were baseless and lacked any iota of truth.
