The Bayelsa State Police Command has arrested a 23-year-old university student over allegations that he circulated a false social media report claiming that armed bandits had invaded parts of the state.
The incident reportedly triggered panic across several communities after the claim suggested that militants were holding the alleged bandits and demanding a ransom.
Commissioner of Police Daniel Iyamah disclosed the arrest during a press briefing in Yenagoa on Friday, stating that the misinformation caused widespread fear and disrupted normal activities.
He said the report, which surfaced on June 5, 2026, falsely alleged that armed bandits had infiltrated communities in Bayelsa and were being held hostage by militants demanding ₦50 million.
According to him, the viral post led to panic in areas including Polaku Community, where parents reportedly rushed to schools to pick up their children while commercial activities were temporarily halted.
“The publication generated widespread concern among residents and triggered panic in several communities,” Iyamah said.
He explained that the command immediately launched intelligence and field operations to verify the claims, which were later confirmed to be entirely false.
“Following extensive on-the-spot assessments and intelligence gathering, it became evident that the information being circulated was entirely false,” he said.
The suspect was identified as Promise Etete, a 23-year-old 300-level student of the University of Uyo and an indigene of Akwa Ibom State.
Iyamah said the suspect was tracked and arrested through digital investigation and intelligence-led policing operations.
“Through intelligence-led policing, digital investigation and technical tracking, detectives successfully identified, tracked and arrested one Promise Etete in connection with originating and posting the misleading report,” he said.
He added that the suspect is currently in custody at the State Criminal Investigation Department and is assisting with ongoing investigations.
The police commissioner warned against the spread of false security information, stressing that social media misuse would not be tolerated.
“I also urge residents to verify security-related information before sharing it,” he said.
He assured residents that there was no bandit invasion or attack in any part of Bayelsa State.
In a separate case, the command also confirmed the arrest of another suspect linked to an attempted murder incident in Okodi Community, where a victim was allegedly set ablaze following accusations of theft.
Police say investigations into both cases are ongoing, and suspects will be charged to court upon completion of inquiries.
The command reiterated its warning against jungle justice and the circulation of unverified security alerts, noting that such actions often lead to unnecessary panic and disruption of public order.
Mariam Balogun is a contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
