Police dismiss claims of terrorist infiltration in Ogbomoso

By Adejayan Gbenga

The Oyo State Police Command has dismissed reports circulating on social media alleging that suspected terrorists have infiltrated Ogbomoso and surrounding forest areas in the state, describing the claims as false, misleading and entirely unfounded.

The clarification was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday in Ibadan by the Police Public Relations Officer, Ayanlade Olayinka, who urged residents to disregard the viral messages.

According to the command, a video and accompanying voice note being circulated online falsely claimed that suspected Lukarawa terrorists had moved into forests around Ogbomoso and the Old Oyo National Park, creating anxiety among residents.

The police, however, said intelligence reports and ongoing security assessments have not revealed any evidence of terrorist infiltration or suspicious movement within the affected areas. It added that the security situation across Ogbomoso and its environs remains calm and under control.

Despite dismissing the reports, the command disclosed that it has strengthened security presence across Ogbomoso and neighbouring border communities as a precautionary measure aimed at maintaining public safety and preventing any potential security threats.

It stated that covert operatives, working in collaboration with other security agencies, have been deployed to strategic locations to enhance surveillance, intelligence gathering and rapid response capabilities across the area.

The police further revealed that patrol operations, stop-and-search exercises and visibility policing have been intensified along vulnerable routes and communities to reassure residents and deter criminal activities.

While warning against the spread of fake news and unverified security alerts, the command said individuals found deliberately circulating false information capable of causing panic or public disorder would be prosecuted. It urged residents to rely on verified updates from official security agencies, remain calm, go about their lawful activities and promptly report any suspicious movement, while reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Oyo State.