Abia Boko Haram arrest claim debunked by police as viral video is dismissed as false and outdated, with warnings against misinformation

Abia State Police Command has dismissed a viral social media video claiming that 488 Boko Haram terrorists were arrested in the state, describing the report as false, misleading and capable of causing unnecessary panic.

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Abia Boko Haram arrest claim debunked by the command was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chinaka.

According to the statement, the video being circulated online is an old broadcast dating back over 11 years and does not reflect the current security situation in Abia State.

The police emphasised that the content was being misrepresented with the intent to incite fear and unrest among residents.

The command urged members of the public to remain calm and continue their daily activities without fear, reassuring them of its commitment to safeguarding lives and property as the lead internal security agency in the state.

Authorities also cautioned residents against sharing unverified information on social media, warning that individuals found culpable in spreading false information would face prosecution.

Commissioner of Police in Abia State, CP Danladi Isa, was quoted as warning that the dissemination of misinformation intended to provoke civil unrest would not be tolerated.

He noted that offenders would be prosecuted under relevant provisions of the Criminal Code Act and the Cybercrime (Prohibition/Prevention) Act.

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The police further encouraged the public to rely only on credible and verified sources for news, reiterating its commitment to maintaining peace and order across the state.