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•By OYENIYI AWOJOODU
IBADAN — THE Oyo State Police Command on Friday dismissed reports claiming that victims abducted during the May 18 attack in Oriire Local Government Area of the state had been released.
The command clarified that the kidnapped students, pupils and teachers are still in captivity, while security agencies continue coordinated efforts to secure their rescue and apprehend those behind the attack.
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, disclosed this in a statement made available to journalists in the early hours of Friday.
According to the statement, “The Oyo State Police Command wishes to inform the general public that the abducted students, pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area are yet to be released, as intensive efforts by security agencies continue to ensure their safe rescue and the arrest of those responsible for the criminal act.”
The command described as false and misleading rumours currently circulating that the victims had regained freedom.
“The Command hereby debunks the rumour currently circulating that the victims have been rescued.
“Members of the public are urged to remain calm, support the ongoing efforts of the joint security team, and verify every piece of information before sharing it,” the statement added.
The police further warned against the spread of fake news, noting that misinformation could create panic, heighten tension and distract security personnel from ongoing rescue operations.
“The spread of fake news and misinformation only creates unnecessary panic, heightens tension, and diverts limited security resources that are critically needed for the ongoing operations,” the command stated.
The police assured residents of Oyo State that verified updates would be communicated as developments unfold, urging members of the public to seek authentic information through the Police Public Relations Officer or the command’s control room.
