The Osun State Police Command has dismissed viral claims suggesting that suspected bandits were recently arrested in different parts of Osun State.
The command said investigations conducted into the incidents found no evidence linking any of the individuals involved to banditry or terrorist activities.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, through the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, authorities described the reports circulating on social media as misleading and capable of causing unnecessary panic among residents.
Police Explain Osogbo Incident
According to the command, one of the viral incidents involved a man who was apprehended by members of the public along the Lameco–Oke-Fia Road in Osogbo on June 3, 2026, after he was suspected of being a bandit.
Police officers immediately took the suspect into custody and commenced investigations.
Items reportedly recovered from him included a knife, an army camouflage trouser, local charms and clothing materials.
However, investigators later discovered that the suspect showed signs of mental health challenges during questioning.
The police identified him as Adebayo Sunday, 38, after members of his family visited investigators and confirmed his identity.
Further inquiries reportedly revealed that he had previously received treatment for a mental health condition more than a decade ago.
The command said the suspect was subsequently referred to a psychiatric hospital for further medical evaluation and treatment.
Imesi-Ile Case Linked To Farmland Dispute
The police also addressed another viral video alleging that suspected bandits had been arrested in Imesi-Ile.
Following the circulation of the footage, officers arrested the individuals involved and launched an investigation.
According to the police, the suspects were identified as Abdullahi Umaru, Usman Bello and Umaru Aliyu, who are cattle rearers living in the community with their families and livestock.
Investigators interviewed community leaders, residents and cattle owners during the inquiry.
The village head reportedly confirmed that the men and their families had lived peacefully in the area for more than two decades.
Police said the investigation eventually established that the matter stemmed from a dispute involving alleged damage to farmland rather than any criminal activity connected to banditry.
The complainants later informed authorities of their decision to settle the issue amicably and formally withdrew their complaint.
Police Warn Against False Information
The Osun State Police Command urged residents to avoid spreading unverified information capable of creating fear and confusion within communities.
The command advised members of the public to verify security-related reports through official channels and promptly report suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies.
Police authorities stressed that misinformation regarding security matters could undermine public confidence and trigger unnecessary panic, adding that all credible reports of criminal activity would continue to receive prompt attention.
The command reassured residents that security agencies remain committed to protecting lives and property across Osun State while encouraging continued cooperation from the public.
