The Kwara State Police Command has dismissed reports of a bandit invasion in Oke-Oyi and surrounding communities, describing the claims as false and misleading.

According to the police, panic broke out around 9:15 a.m. at Government Girls Secondary School, Oke-Oyi, after reports emerged that suspected bandits had entered the area. The alarm caused temporary disruption of academic activities as students and staff fled for safety.

The Command said the Divisional Police Officer of Oke-Oyi immediately deployed officers to the school and surrounding areas to assess the situation and ensure public safety.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the panic was triggered by a woman who reportedly entered the school premises claiming that bandits had arrived in the community. Police said the claim was unverified and sparked unnecessary fear among students and teachers.

After assessing the situation, security operatives found no evidence of a bandit attack, sighting, or any security breach within the school, Oke-Oyi community, or any part of Kwara State.

The Commissioner of Police, Ojo Adekimi, condemned the spread of false security alerts, warning that such actions create public panic, undermine confidence in security agencies, and divert resources from genuine emergencies.

The Command disclosed that efforts are underway to identify the individual responsible for the false alarm. Police said the person would be questioned and may face prosecution under laws relating to the spread of false information and conduct capable of causing a breach of public peace.

Residents were urged to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified reports, and rely on official channels for security information. The police also encouraged members of the public to report suspicious activities to the nearest security agency.

The Kwara State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property, assuring residents that adequate security measures remain in place across the state.