EDO POLICE DISMISS CLAIM OF STUDENTS’ KIDNAP AT BENIN SCHOOL, MOVE TO ARREST SOURCE OF FAKE REPORT

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By Aishat Momoh. O.

The Edo State Police Command has dismissed claims circulating on social media alleging that students of Green Park Academy, Aduwawa, Benin City, were kidnapped, describing the report as false and misleading.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikoedem, said the allegation, which was widely shared online, was being promoted by a social media user identified as “Azawoman,” and had caused unnecessary panic among residents.

The Command stressed that after a thorough verification process, no kidnapping incident occurred at the school.

“The Edo State Police Command has become aware of a misleading and unfounded report circulating on social media alleging that students of Green Park Academy, Aduwawa, Benin City, were kidnapped,” the statement read. “The false narrative… has generated unnecessary concern among members of the public.”

It added that the claim was completely baseless and deliberately circulated to misinform the public and create unwarranted fear.

“Findings reveal that the report is entirely false, lacks any factual basis, and was deliberately disseminated to misinform the public and create unwarranted panic within the State,” the Command stated.

The police further condemned the spread of unverified security-related information, warning that such actions undermine public confidence and threaten public order.

“The Command strongly condemns the reckless spread of false information capable of undermining public confidence, causing fear among residents, and diverting attention from genuine security concerns,” it said.

According to the statement, steps have already been taken to identify and apprehend the individual responsible for initiating the false report for questioning and possible prosecution.

The Command urged members of the public to verify information from official and credible sources before sharing it on social media, warning against the dangers of misinformation.

Commissioner of Police in Edo State, Monday Agbonika, reassured residents that the security situation across the state remains stable, while commending citizens for their cooperation with law enforcement agencies.

He called for continued support in efforts to maintain peace, security, and public order across Edo State.