Breaking: Police Dismiss Viral List Of Oyo Kidnap Suspects As False

The Oyo State Command of the Nigeria Police Force has dismissed a viral publication claiming to reveal the identities of suspects allegedly arrested in connection with the recent kidnapping incident in Ahoro-Esiele, Oriire Local Government Area.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The Command also described as false a report purporting to contain confidential operational details of the ongoing investigation into the abduction case.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, said the publication, which included alleged suspect names, intercepted communications, and financial transaction records, did not originate from the police or any recognized security agency.

According to him, the report is misleading, speculative, and capable of jeopardizing ongoing security operations.

Ayanlade noted that the publication contained several unverified claims and technical details that had neither been released nor endorsed by authorities handling the investigation.

“The Command wishes to categorically state that the said publication is misleading, speculative, and not an official security report,” he said.

He emphasized that the investigation remains active and is being conducted through intelligence-driven strategies, making it necessary to keep sensitive information confidential.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the investigation into the unfortunate incident remains active, sensitive, and intelligence-driven,” Ayanlade stated.

The police spokesperson explained that details such as suspects’ identities, investigative leads, operational strategies, and financial intelligence are protected to prevent interference with the investigation and ensure the successful arrest of those responsible.

“As is standard practice in matters of this nature, operational details, identities of suspects, investigative leads, and financial intelligence components are strictly protected to safeguard ongoing efforts, prevent compromise of field operations, and ensure successful apprehension of all perpetrators,” he added.

The Command warned members of the public, bloggers, and online publishers against circulating unverified information, stressing that such actions could create panic, misinform residents, and undermine ongoing security efforts.

“The Command therefore cautions members of the public, bloggers, and online publishers against the dissemination of unverified, exaggerated, or operationally sensitive information capable of misleading the public, causing panic, or undermining active security operations,” he said.

Ayanlade further warned that anyone found deliberately spreading false information or obstructing investigations would face legal consequences.

“The Oyo State Police Command will not hesitate to apply the full weight of the law against any individual or group found deliberately circulating false information, interfering with investigations, or attempting to obstruct ongoing security operations,” he added.

The Command urged residents to rely only on official sources for updates regarding the abduction case and other security matters in the state.

It also reaffirmed its determination to ensure that all those involved in the crime are identified, arrested, and prosecuted.

“The Command reassures residents of its unwavering commitment to ensuring that all those involved in the crime are identified, arrested, and brought to justice in accordance with the law,” the statement added.

The clarification comes amid ongoing efforts to secure the release of dozens of abducted pupils and teachers currently being held by their captors.

Earlier, the police also denied reports circulating on social media claiming that the kidnapped pupils and teachers from Oriire Local Government Area had been rescued.

At least 46 pupils and teachers were abducted on May 15 when armed attackers invaded three schools in the area. The affected schools include Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School, Esiele; and L.A. Primary School.