Police Arrest University Student Over False Bandit Invasion Report in Bayelsa

Operatives of the Bayelsa State Police Command have arrested a 23-year-old student of the University of Uyo for allegedly originating and circulating a false report claiming that bandits had invaded parts of Bayelsa State and attacked schools.

The Commissioner of Police, Iyamah Edebor, confirmed the arrest, identifying the suspect as Promise Etete, a 300-level student, who allegedly created and shared the misleading security alert that sparked panic across the state.

According to the police commissioner, the false report began circulating on social media on June 5, 2026, alleging that armed bandits had infiltrated Bayelsa and that local militants had captured the attackers while demanding ransom for their release.

The report triggered widespread fear among residents, prompting many parents to hurriedly withdraw their children from schools, while commercial activities were temporarily disrupted in several communities.

Edebor said the Command immediately deployed operational and intelligence personnel to verify the claims.

"Following extensive on-the-spot assessment and intelligence gathering, it became evident that the information being circulated was entirely false and without any factual basis," he said.

The commissioner disclosed that detectives were able to identify and apprehend the suspect through intelligence-led policing, digital investigations, and technical tracking.

"Through intelligence-led policing, digital investigation, and technical tracking, detectives successfully identified, tracked, and arrested one Promise Etete, 23, in connection with originating and posting the misleading report," Edebor stated.

He added that the suspect is currently being held at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) and has made useful statements to investigators as inquiries continue.

The police commissioner also warned against the misuse of social media to spread false information, stressing that law enforcement agencies have the capacity to trace and prosecute offenders.

"Cyberspace is not beyond the reach of law enforcement. I therefore warn individuals who use social media irresponsibly to desist from such acts. I also urge residents to verify security-related information before sharing it," he said.

Edebor reassured residents that there was no bandit invasion, no attack on schools, and no threat to public safety, describing the viral report as entirely fabricated.