The Nigeria Police Force has debunked a viral video alleging an ongoing terrorist attack in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), describing the claim as false and deliberately misleading.
The Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, in a statement on Friday, said there was no such incident in Abuja, stressing that the video was fabricated to incite fear and panic among residents.
According to him, preliminary investigations showed that the footage was manipulated using clips sourced from online platforms to create a false narrative aimed at undermining public confidence in the security framework of the nation’s capital.
He disclosed that police operatives have arrested a suspect, identified as Pam Joseph, in connection with the production and circulation of the video.
“The arrest followed credible intelligence and digital forensic investigations which traced the origin of the content to the suspect,” the statement said.
The police warned that while citizens have the right to freedom of expression, spreading false information capable of threatening public peace and national security is a punishable offence.
The Force urged members of the public to always verify information before sharing, cautioning against actions that could incite panic or disorder.
The suspect, currently in police custody, will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations.
The police reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining public order and national security, noting that surveillance of digital platforms will continue, with decisive action to be taken against purveyors of fake news.
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