The Oyo State Police Command has denied reports that pupils, students and teachers abducted during last Friday’s attack on three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of the state have been rescued.
PrimeTimes Nigeria reports that the command said the victims were still in captivity, adding that security agencies were intensifying efforts to secure their release and arrest those behind the attack.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday in Ibadan, the state capital.
The command urged members of the public to disregard rumours claiming that the abducted victims had regained freedom.
The statement read, “The Oyo State Police Command wishes to inform the general public that the abducted students, pupils, and teachers in Orire Local Government Area are yet to be released, as intensive efforts by security agencies continue to ensure their safe rescue and the arrest of those responsible for the criminal act.
“The Command hereby debunks the rumour currently circulating that the victims have been rescued.”
The police appealed to residents to remain calm and support the ongoing joint security operation.
The command also warned against spreading unverified information, saying fake news could cause panic and hamper security efforts.
“Members of the public are urged to remain calm, support the ongoing efforts of the joint security team, and verify every piece of information before sharing it.
“The spread of fake news and misinformation only creates unnecessary panic, heightens tension, and diverts limited security resources that are critically needed for the ongoing operations,” the statement added.
The police assured residents that verified updates would be released as developments unfold.
The statement added, “The Command assures the good people of Oyo State that updates and verified facts will be communicated as developments unfold.
“Individuals seeking clarification or authentic information are advised to contact the Police Public Relations Officer or the Command’s control room through the numbers provided below.”