…warn against fake security alerts
Ime Silas
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested a suspect for circulating a threatening social media post that sparked fear in Eket and warned residents against sharing unverified security alarms online.
In a press release signed by Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the Command said it arrested “one suspect, Akaninyene Udo, a male resident of Akpautong, Esit Eket Local Government Area, who operates on social media under the name ‘AK Philo.’”
According to the police, the suspect was apprehended “following investigations into a viral social media post in which he circulated a threatening message stating, ‘Eket get ready for us,’ accompanied by an image of an armed bandit.” The post, police said, “generated fear and widespread concern among residents of Eket and its environs.”
The Command stressed that there is “no cause for alarm” in the state. “The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has observed with concern the activities of certain individuals who use social media platforms to circulate false, misleading, and provocative security-related messages aimed at creating fear, panic, and unnecessary apprehension among residents of the State,” the statement read.
It added: “The Command wishes to assure the good people of Akwa Ibom State that there is no cause for alarm. The security situation across the State remains calm, stable, and under control, while the Police and other security agencies continue to maintain vigilance and deploy proactive measures to safeguard lives and property.”
Police said investigation into the matter “has been concluded, and the suspect will soon be charged to court in accordance with the provisions of the law.” Efforts are also “ongoing to identify and apprehend other individuals who may have collaborated in the dissemination of the false and inciting content.”
DSP John issued a stern warning to the public: “The Command therefore warns members of the public against the creation, publication, or sharing of unverified security alerts, fake news, and other misleading information capable of disturbing public peace. Such actions constitute criminal offences and offenders will be traced, arrested, and prosecuted.”
Residents were urged to “verify security-related information through official channels and credible sources before sharing or acting on such reports.” The Command said it “remains committed to ensuring the continued peace, security, and stability of the State” and encouraged the public to “remain calm, law-abiding, and promptly report suspicious activities or genuine security concerns to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency lines.”
“Together, we will continue to keep Akwa Ibom State safe and secure,” the release concluded.
