The Ogun State Police Command has arrested a suspect for allegedly spreading false information on social media claiming that bandits had invaded Atan Ota area of the state.
Police sources disclosed that the incident was reported on May 23 by one Ayinla Sodiq of Obasanjo Ota, who came to the station alongside the suspect, identified as Kowi Oloyede of Orita Sokoto Road, Atan Ota.
According to the report, Ayinla alleged that the suspect created and circulated a fake news content on TikTok falsely claiming the presence of bandits in Atan Ota community.
The sources said the Divisional Police Officer immediately interviewed the suspect following the complaint.
During interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to creating the misleading content in order to gain followers and attract attention on social media platforms.
Police authorities said photographs and video evidence linked to the fake publication were obtained during the preliminary investigation.
The suspect is expected to be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department (SCIID), Abeokuta, for further discreet investigation.
The Police Command warned against the spread of false information capable of causing panic, fear and public disorder, urging residents to verify information before sharing it on social media platforms.
By: Zagazola Makama
