Kogi Police declare the circulating bandit attack report false, urging residents to stay calm and rely on verified information as security is strengthened

The Kogi State Police Command has dismissed as baseless the Bandit Attack Report circulating online, describing it as a misleading alarm capable of stirring needless tension across the state.

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In a statement issued on Monday, the command’s spokesman, CSP William Aya, said the report was unverifiable and lacked any element of truth.

Aya stressed that the trending posts suggesting a coordinated bandit movement in Kogi East were unfounded and should not be taken as credible.

He explained that the command had been inundated with enquiries since the early hours of Monday after the viral messages triggered widespread concern.

According to him, officers immediately activated verification procedures but found nothing to support the dramatic claims.

Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Kankarofi, assured residents that the state remained secure.

He ordered the deployment of tactical teams, including Police Mobile Force, counter terrorism units, Quick Response squads and intelligence operatives, to strengthen surveillance in strategic locations.

Kankarofi noted that additional security assets had been positioned to swiftly manage any unforeseen situations.

He appealed to residents to stay calm, emphasising that misinformation can fuel unnecessary panic and strain security efforts.

He urged the public to work closely with the police, stressing that safety is a shared responsibility.

He encouraged citizens to report any suspicious activity immediately rather than rely on social media rumours.

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The command reiterated that the Bandit Attack Report was untrue and advised residents to always seek confirmation from official sources before circulating sensitive information.