A 23-year-old university student faces arrest in Bayelsa over a false social media report. The student allegedly posted claims that armed bandits had invaded the state and were being held by militants demanding ₦50 million ransom.
Police Commissioner Daniel Iyamah announced the arrest during a Friday briefing in Yenagoa. He said the fabricated post emerged on June 5, 2026, and sparked panic across several communities.
According to Iyamah, the misleading report severely disrupted daily life in affected areas. Parents rushed to schools to retrieve their children while business activities ground to a halt.
Polaku Community and surrounding neighborhoods felt the impact most acutely. Residents became gripped by fear over what they believed was an imminent security threat.
"The publication generated widespread concern among residents and triggered panic in several communities," Iyamah told journalists. He noted that commercial activities were temporarily disrupted across the region.
Police operatives immediately began investigations upon discovering the false claim. They deployed intelligence and operational teams to verify the information circulating online.
After extensive on-the-spot assessments, authorities confirmed the entire story was fabricated. No bandits had invaded Bayelsa, officials determined.
Detectives identified the suspect as Promise Etete, a 300-level student at the University of Uyo. Etete hails from Akwa Ibom State.
Intelligence-led policing and digital tracking techniques led police to apprehend him. He's currently held at the State Criminal Investigation Department providing statements to investigators.
Iyamah warned sternly against misusing social media platforms to spread false information. "Cyberspace is not beyond the reach of law enforcement," he stated firmly.
He urged individuals to stop abusing social networks with reckless posts. Citizens should verify security-related claims before sharing them widely, the commissioner advised.
Iyamah reassured residents that Bayelsa faces no actual bandit threat. Schools remain safe and public security hasn't been compromised, he confirmed.
The police command remains committed to tackling cybercrimes in the state. Officials vowed they won't tolerate further attempts to incite public alarm through false reports.
