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Report of herdsmen burning Imo student hostel false – Police

From The Punch · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • The Imo State Police Command has debunked reports of herdsmen setting fire to a student hostel near the Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri.
  • The command described the circulating Facebook report as false, misleading, and capable of causing unnecessary panic.
  • Police urged the public to disregard the unverified information and to always verify news from credible sources.

The Imo State Police Command has officially refuted claims circulating on social media alleging that herdsmen set fire to a student hostel near the Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri. The command has described the report as entirely false and misleading.

The Imo State Command wishes to state unequivocally that the report is entirely false, misleading, and capable of causing unnecessary panic among residents.

— DSP Henry OkoyeImo State Police Spokesperson, dismissing the report of a hostel fire caused by herdsmen.

Reports that emerged on Facebook on Sunday, July 5, suggested that over 80 students were trapped in a hostel allegedly set ablaze by herdsmen. DSP Henry Okoye, the command’s spokesperson, stated that this publication was not only false but also capable of inciting unnecessary panic among residents.

The police urged the public to disregard the unverified information and to refrain from sharing content that could trigger fear or public disorder. They emphasized the importance of verifying the authenticity of information through credible and official channels before disseminating it on social media or other platforms.

The command therefore urges members of the public to disregard the false publication and refrain from sharing unverified information capable of causing fear, panic, or public disorder.

— DSP Henry OkoyeImo State Police Spokesperson, advising the public on handling unverified news.

The Imo State Police Command reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents and pledged to continue providing timely and accurate information regarding public safety matters.

Citizens are advised to always verify the authenticity of information through credible and official sources before sharing it on social media or other platforms.

— DSP Henry OkoyeImo State Police Spokesperson, emphasizing the need for information verification.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.