The Cross River State Police Command has urged members of the public to disregard reports about the infiltration of bandits into parts of Akamkpa LGA as well as the Calabar metropolis.
The police also described the reports as baseless and false, warning individuals and groups against deliberately “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.”
There have been a series of social media publications alleging the arrest of bandits in Calabar and Akamkpa Local Government Area, as well as claims that criminal elements have infiltrated the state. However, the police have stoutly denied the claims.
Residents have, however, decried the increasing presence of strangers in many forests in Boki and Akamkpa, as well as riverine communities in Odukpani LGA. Many are reportedly engaged in illegal mining, while armed personnel allegedly harass farmers and their cattle repeatedly ravage farmlands.
In a statement signed by the command’s PRO, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, it said: “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.
“Preliminary investigations, security assessments, and intelligence reviews conducted by the Command reveal that the viral reports are not supported by any credible security report, arrest record, or intelligence available to the Police or any sister security agency operating within the state.
“Specifically, there is no verified report of bandits being arrested at the NYSC Orientation Camp in Calabar, nor is there any intelligence indicating the infiltration of Cross River State by any organised bandit group as alleged in the circulating posts.”
According to Akata, the images and narratives accompanying the social media publications were intended to misinform the public, create unnecessary panic, and distort the true security situation in the state.
He disclosed that, in collaboration with sister security agencies, the command has deployed a robust security presence, conducted intelligence-driven operations, instituted surveillance measures, and carried out strategic patrols across the state to ensure the safety and security of all residents and visitors.
While urging the public to continue their lawful activities without fear and remain vigilant, Akata said the command had provided emergency helplines, 07053355415 and 07041777060, for members of the public to promptly report any suspicious movements or activities.