The Kwara State Police Command has dismissed a viral social media video claiming that bandits who attacked worshippers at the Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, have been arrested.
The two-minute clip, which spread widely on WhatsApp and Facebook on Thursday, alleged that security operatives had rounded up the attackers less than 48 hours after the violent raid that left several worshippers abducted.
However, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, said in a statement that the video is “completely false” and urged the public to disregard it.
“The Kwara State Police Command is aware of a video circulating online claiming that the bandits who attacked church worshippers in Eruku community have been arrested. This information is completely false and should be disregarded,” she said.
Ejire-Adeyemi clarified that no suspect has been apprehended so far, adding that security agencies are intensifying search-and-rescue operations in and around Eruku town.
“Security agencies are actively conducting intensified operations… to track down the perpetrators and ensure the safe recovery of the abducted victims,” she said.
The police spokesperson expressed concern over the growing trend of unverified information spreading rapidly during security incidents, warning that such misinformation can create panic and undermine ongoing operations.
“Members of the public are advised to desist from spreading unverified videos or claims capable of causing panic or misleading the community,” she added.
Residents of Eruku and neighbouring communities remain tense following Tuesday night’s attack — the latest in a series of security breaches affecting border areas between Kwara, Kogi and Ekiti states. Community leaders say the rise in kidnappings and bandit incursions has forced many farmers to flee their farmlands.
A resident who spoke anonymously said, “People are still afraid… now this false video is making things worse. We just want the government to act fast.”
Security experts also warn that the circulation of misleading content during crises poses significant challenges for law enforcement. Ilorin-based digital security analyst Taiwo Adeshina noted that misinformation “diverts attention and can compromise tactical planning.”
The police urged residents to rely solely on verified information from official channels, assuring that efforts are ongoing to rescue victims and restore calm to the affected community.
