Public allegations of bandits infiltrating areas of Akamkpa LGA and the Calabar metropolis have been recommended to be disregarded by the Cross River State Police Command.
“Peddling false information capable of causing public disorder, inciting panic, undermining public confidence in security institutions, or disrupting public peace, as such actions may attract sanctions under relevant laws,” the police warned, adding that the reports were unfounded and untrue.
Several online articles have claimed that criminals have penetrated the state and that bandits have been apprehended in the Calabar and Akamkpa Local Government Areas. The police, however, have strongly refuted the accusations.
Yet, locals in Odukpani LGA’s riverine settlements and Boki and Akamkpa’s woods have complained about the growing number of outsiders. There have been reports of armed individuals harassing farmers and their cattle and ravaging farmlands, as well as of many people involved in illicit mining.
The command’s public relations officer, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, issued a statement that read: “The Command categorically states that these claims are entirely false, misleading, and calculated to create unnecessary fear, panic, and anxiety among residents and visitors to Cross River State.”
“Any credible security report, arrest record, or intelligence available to the Police or any sister security agency operating within the state does not support the viral reports,” the Command stated after conducting preliminary investigations, security assessments, and intelligence checks.
“Delivering on the claims made in the circulating posts, there is no confirmed information regarding the arrest of bandits at the NYSC Orientation Camp in Calabar or any intelligence suggesting that an organised bandit group has infiltrated Cross River State.”
Akata claims that the stories and photos posted on social media were an attempt to mislead people, instigate needless fear, and mask the real level of security.
He revealed that the command, in conjunction with sister security agencies, has increased its security presence, implemented surveillance measures, conducted operations driven by intelligence, and conducted strategic patrols throughout the state to guarantee the safety of everyone.
The command has established emergency helplines, 07053355415 and 07041777060, so members of the public can report any suspicious movements or activities swiftly. Akata urged the public to be watchful and continue their normal activities without fear.