The Oyo State Police Command has debunked reports on social media alleging the movement and infiltration of suspected Lukarawa terrorists into the forests around Ogbomoso and the Old Oyo National Park, describing the claims as false, misleading, and capable of causing unnecessary panic among residents.

In a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, the command said comprehensive intelligence assessments and security reports at its disposal do not support claims of any terrorist movement or infiltration within the affected areas.

The police explained that preliminary investigations revealed that the video and accompanying voice note being circulated were not recent but old materials deliberately recycled and misrepresented to create fear and apprehension among residents of the state.

“The command unequivocally rejects and dismisses the claims contained in the said video and voice note as false, misleading, and entirely without factual basis,” the statement said.

It urged the public to refrain from sharing unverified security-related information and to seek confirmation from official sources before disseminating such reports.

However, the police said intelligence and covert operatives had been strategically deployed to border communities and other vulnerable locations within the Ogbomoso axis to strengthen existing security measures and early warning systems.

According to the command, the operatives are working closely with local security structures, traditional institutions, hunters, vigilante groups and community-based intelligence networks to enhance information gathering and ensure swift response to any emerging security threats.

The police added that visibility policing, confidence-building patrols, intelligence-led stop-and-search operations and strategic deployments had also been intensified across Ogbomoso, the Old Oyo National Park axis and adjoining border communities.

They further expressed concern over what they described as the increasing circulation of fake news, misinformation and unverified security alerts on social media, warning that such reports could undermine public confidence, disrupt economic activities and divert security resources from genuine security challenges.

It warned that the dissemination of false security information constitutes a criminal offence punishable under existing laws, warning individuals involved in originating or spreading such reports to desist immediately. The command assured residents that there was currently no credible intelligence indicating the presence or infiltration of the purported terrorist group anywhere in Oyo State.

The police also urged residents, particularly those in border communities and rural settlements, to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest security agency.