By Ismail Azeez
The Osun State Police Command has dismissed misleading videos currently circulating on social media regarding the alleged arrest of suspected bandits in some parts of Osun State.
It was recalled that on 3rd June, 2026, a man alleged by members of the public to be a suspected bandit was apprehended along Lameco–Oke-Fia Road, Osogbo. The suspect was immediately taken to Osogbo Area Command, Oke-Fia, Osogbo for investigation.
In a statement signed by Police image maker, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, said that the preliminary investigation led to the recovery of some items, including a knife, an army camouflage trouser, local charms, and clothing materials.
He stated that the investigation revealed the suspect’s identity as Adebayo Sunday, aged 38 yrs, saying that members of his family had visited the police and confirmed his identity.
According to him, “Detectives also contacted a native doctor who disclosed that he had treated the suspect for a mental-related condition over ten years ago.
“The suspect was thereafter taken to the Police Clinic, where he was referred to a psychiatric hospital for further medical evaluation and treatment.
“Similarly, on 3rd June, 2026, a video surfaced online alleging that some suspected bandits had been arrested in Imesi-Ile. Upon receipt of the information, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) promptly swung into action and arrested the individuals concerned for investigation.
“Following the directive of the Commissioner of Police, the case was transferred to the SCID for detailed investigation. Findings revealed that the matter was not related to banditry but rather a case of malicious damage involving farm land. The suspects identified as Abdullahi Umaru, Usman Bello, and Umaru Aliyu, who are cattle rearers residing in Imesi-Ile with their families and livestocks.
“During the investigation, the Village Head was contacted and confirmed that the cattle rearers and their families had lived peacefully within the community for over twenty years. The owners of the cattle were also interviewed as part of the investigation process.
“The investigation established a prima facie case of malicious damage. However, the complainants, Fatorisa Olawale and Adeniyi Adeoye, later informed the police of their intention to amicably resolve the matter and subsequently withdrew the complaint.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Gotan, mnips, therefore urges members of the public to desist from spreading unverified information capable of creating unnecessary panic and tension within the state. Citizens are encouraged to verify information through official channels and promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest police station.
“The Command remains committed to safeguarding lives and property and will continue to respond professionally to all security concerns across the state,” he added.