By Amara Ehia
The Nigeria Police Force, Ebonyi state command, has dismissed as false reports making the rounds on social media alleging that bandits and suspected Fulani herdsmen invaded Nguzu Edda community in Edda local government area of the state.
The command said security operatives deployed to the area found no trace of bandits or herdsmen after extensive search operations in the affected bushes and surrounding communities.
In a press statement issued Monday with reference number AZ.:5200/EBS/PPRO/VOL.9/69, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Joshua Ukandu, said the command swung into action immediately after a viral video surfaced online alleging invasion of the community.
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According to the statement, the Commissioner of Police, Hope Urunwa Okafor, directed the Divisional Police Officer in charge of Edda Division to verify the claim, while tactical teams from the command headquarters were also mobilised to the area.
The statement noted that the combined security team carried out thorough combing and search operations within the bushes and adjoining locations mentioned in the viral video.
“Following a thorough search and combing operation of the affected bushes and surrounding areas, the Command wishes to categorically state that there are no bandits or Fulani herdsmen lurking in Nguzu Edda Community,” the statement read.
The command described the report as misleading and capable of causing unnecessary panic and fear among residents of the area.
It further alleged that the claims were being spread by mischief makers bent on disrupting the peace currently enjoyed in the community and other parts of the state.
The police therefore urged residents and members of the public to disregard the report and continue with their lawful activities, assuring that adequate security measures had been put in place to safeguard lives and property across the state.
