The Ondo State Police Command has dismissed trending social media reports alleging widespread attacks in the Arakale area of Akure, describing them as misleading, unverified, and deliberately crafted to cause panic among residents.

In an official statement issued on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka Olushola, said the inaccurate posts were aimed at distorting facts and undermining recent security gains recorded across the state.

According to the statement, a real incident did occur in the early hours of Wednesday, involving a police inspector who was carrying out lawful duties in the Arakale axis. An altercation reportedly broke out between the officer and some individuals described as “recalcitrant,” during which the officer was stabbed.

A swift response led by the Commissioner of Police resulted in the arrest of two suspects identified as 25-year-old Shina Jacob and 32-year-old Felix Olalekan. The injured officer was rescued and taken to the hospital but sadly died while receiving treatment.

The Command explained that the follow-up operation carried out Wednesday night was part of its strategic efforts to track violent elements and prevent further breakdown of law and order.

Reaffirming its zero-tolerance stance on human rights abuses, the Command also stressed that it would not hesitate to prosecute anyone who attacks police personnel in the line of duty. The arrested suspects will be charged to court upon completion of investigations, it said.

The Police warned members of the public against circulating unverified information, noting that misinformation diverts vital security resources and is itself a criminal act.

“The Ondo State Police Command remains resolute and committed to maintaining law and order in collaboration with other security agencies,” the statement added, while appreciating the Inspector-General of Police for his continued support.