The Bayelsa State Police Command has arrested a 23-year-old man accused of spreading false information about a supposed bandit invasion that triggered fear and disrupted normal activities across parts of the state.
The suspect, identified as Promise Etete, was arrested after investigators traced a viral social media post that falsely claimed armed bandits had entered Bayelsa and were being held by militants demanding ransom. However, police said their investigation found no evidence to support the claims, describing the report as completely false.
The development caused panic among residents. Moreover, several parents reportedly rushed to schools to pick up their children, while businesses temporarily closed amid fears of a possible attack.
Speaking during a press briefing in Yenagoa on Thursday, Commissioner of Police Iyamah Daniel Edebor explained that the command acted immediately after the message began circulating online.
According to him, officers launched both operational and intelligence-led investigations to determine whether the security alert was genuine.
“The command immediately deployed operational and intelligence assets to verify the claims and discovered that the information was entirely false and without any factual basis,” Edebor said.
He noted that detectives relied on intelligence gathering, digital investigations and technical tracking to identify the source of the viral message.
Furthermore, the police commissioner confirmed that the suspect has been taken into custody at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).
“The suspect has made useful statements to investigators,” Edebor added.
The Bayelsa police arrest suspect case has once again highlighted the dangers of spreading false security information through social media. Consequently, the commissioner warned residents against sharing unverified reports capable of causing unnecessary panic.
He stressed that modern policing now includes digital investigation tools that enable security agencies to identify individuals responsible for circulating false information.
In addition, Edebor urged members of the public to confirm security-related reports through official channels before forwarding them to others.
He also reassured residents that schools, markets and public places across Bayelsa remain safe.
Meanwhile, the police command disclosed another major arrest involving an alleged attempted murder case in Okodi Community.
According to police, one Ibobuminaten Oweifa, who is said to be the son of the traditional ruler of the community, was arrested after allegedly attacking a man identified as Godgift Biko.
Investigators alleged that the suspect accused the victim of stealing wood before tying him with wire and setting him on fire.
Fortunately, the victim was rescued before the attack became fatal.
Police said he was immediately taken to a clinic in Okodi Community, where he received first aid treatment.
Furthermore, officers attached to the division quickly arrested the suspect and opened a full investigation into the incident.
The command condemned jungle justice and warned residents against taking the law into their own hands.
According to Edebor, anyone found engaging in violence or unlawful punishment will face prosecution in accordance with the law.
He assured the public that investigations into both cases are ongoing. Moreover, suspects will be charged to court once investigations are completed.
The commissioner reiterated that protecting lives and property remains the command’s priority.
He therefore encouraged residents to continue supporting security agencies by reporting suspicious activities through official emergency channels rather than relying on rumours circulating online.
