Edo State Police Command has arrested a woman identified as Uzebor Emmanuella, popularly known as “Aza Woman,” for allegedly circulating false information on social media regarding the purported kidnapping of students in Benin City.
According to the police, the suspect posted a video online claiming that students of Green Park Academy, Aduwawa, and Western Boys’ College, Ikpoba Hill, had been abducted by kidnappers.
Investigations by the command reportedly revealed that Emmanuella knowingly shared misleading reports across various social media platforms, alleging that about six individuals had been kidnapped through different mini-buses operating within the state.
The suspect was also alleged to have claimed that some of the victims escaped from their captors while others secured their freedom after the payment of ransom.
Reacting to the development, the spokesperson for the Edo State Police Command, ASP Eno Ikoedem, said the false reports created unnecessary fear among residents and had the potential to erode public trust in the state’s security framework.
“The Edo State Police Command reiterates that the deliberate spread of false information, particularly on matters relating to public safety and security, is a serious offence with far-reaching consequences.
“Such actions are capable of inciting panic, disrupting public order, and diverting security resources from genuine emergencies.
“The security of a state should never be jeopardized for views, engagement, online relevance, or any other form of social media gratification.
“The suspect will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.”
The police command urged members of the public to verify information before sharing it, especially on issues relating to security and public safety.
