By Our Reporter
The Edo State Government has dismissed reports alleging that school students were kidnapped in Sabongida-Ora, saying no such incident occurred and describing the report as false and intended to create panic among residents.
The government said the individual responsible for originating and circulating the report had been arrested and would be prosecuted to serve as a deterrent to others engaged in spreading misinformation.
In a statement on Thursday, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Prince Kassim Afegbua, said Governor Monday Okpebholo had invested heavily in strengthening the state’s security architecture and remained committed to safeguarding lives and property.
Afegbua said contrary to the false reports, security agencies had recorded successes in tackling crime, including the rescue of a woman who was abducted around the Vegetable Market axis off Airport Road on June 14.
According to him, the rescue operation was carried out by the police on the directive of the governor, while the suspected kidnappers had also been arrested and were currently in police custody awaiting prosecution.
“The Governor is not resting on his oars in his determination to make Edo State safe for all,” the commissioner said.
He added that investigations had revealed that many kidnapping incidents were often aided by insiders, including relatives, family members and close associates who provide information to criminal elements.
Afegbua quoted the governor as cautioning residents to be mindful of the company they keep and to remain vigilant.
He also called on citizens to support security agencies with useful intelligence to help curb kidnapping and other criminal activities across the state.
The commissioner reaffirmed the government’s resolve to rid Edo State of criminal elements and ensure the safety of residents and visitors.
Ends
