Osun Police Arrest Man Over False Social Media Claim of Bandits’ Invasion

The Osun State Police Command has arrested a 22-year-old man for allegedly spreading false information on social media after he published a video claiming that bandits had invaded parts of the state, a development that reportedly triggered widespread panic among residents.

The suspect was apprehended following investigations into a viral Facebook post that alleged armed bandits had infiltrated communities in Osun State.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, said preliminary investigations revealed that the video did not depict a bandit attack as claimed.

According to the police, the footage actually showed members of the public restraining a mentally challenged individual and had no connection whatsoever with criminal activities or an invasion by armed groups.

The command explained that the suspect uploaded the video on his Facebook account on Monday, falsely presenting it as evidence of bandits operating within the state.

The misleading post quickly gained attention online, generating anxiety and fear among residents who believed the state was under attack.

Ojelabi disclosed that the suspect was arrested on Wednesday for disseminating false information contrary to provisions of the Cybercrimes Act, 2015 and other relevant laws governing the use of digital platforms.

He noted that although the suspect was initially taken into custody, he was later released following passionate appeals from his elderly parents.

The police spokesperson further revealed that the suspect subsequently issued a public apology and admitted responsibility for the misleading publication.

According to the command, he was warned against repeating similar actions capable of undermining public peace and security.

Commenting on the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Osun State, Ibrahim Gotan, cautioned residents against sharing unverified reports, particularly on social media platforms where misinformation can spread rapidly.

He stressed that false security alerts have the potential to create unnecessary panic, disrupt economic activities and divert attention from genuine security concerns.

The commissioner reiterated the command’s commitment to combating misinformation and maintaining public confidence through accurate and timely communication.

He urged residents to verify sensitive information through official channels before sharing it and encouraged citizens to cooperate with security agencies by reporting genuine security threats.

The incident highlights growing concerns over the misuse of social media platforms for the dissemination of false information, particularly in an era where security-related content can quickly generate widespread public anxiety.