The Police Command in Sokoto State has denied recent claims of the arrest of alleged bandits in the Sabon-Birni Local Government Area (LGA) of the state. This official refutation comes as a response to a viral social media post that had been circulating, suggesting that a group of bandits had been apprehended in Sabon-Birni.
On Tuesday, the Spokesman of the Sokoto State Police Command, ASP Ahmad Rufai, issued a statement in Sokoto to provide clarity on the situation. According to Rufai, the police had become aware of the viral social media post alleging the arrest of these purported bandits on a Monday, a claim he unequivocally declared as false.
The incident in question began when nine individuals hailing from Zangon Tashalawa village in Sabon-Birni LGA set out on a journey to attend the wedding Fatiha of their friend, Yusuf Attahiru. They were adorned in traditional wedding attire known as “anko” and were traveling on commercial motorcycles. Their festive attire, however, led to a misunderstanding when they were intercepted by local vigilance group members, who mistakenly interpreted their clothing as a sign of something more sinister.
Rufai clarified that these individuals were unarmed and had no ill intentions. They were merely on their way to partake in a joyful celebration. Unfortunately, due to the vigilance group members’ misinterpretation of their attire, they were detained.
The news of this incident quickly spread across various social media platforms, contributing to the confusion and misinformation surrounding the situation. To address the situation, Rufai emphasized that these individuals were not bandits, as the viral post had claimed. Rather, they were innocent friends who had innocently set out to celebrate a special occasion. The police spokesperson also urged the public to remain calm and continue with their lawful activities.
Additionally, Rufai expressed the police’s strong disapproval of the spread of false information, especially information that has the potential to incite public unrest. He warned that individuals who engage in spreading such false information or those involved in criminal activities would face legal consequences.
Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ali Kaigama, echoed these sentiments, reiterating that the state remains secure and safe. He sought to reassure the residents of Sokoto State, reaffirming the commitment of the police to maintaining law and order in the region.
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