The Ondo State Police Command has arrested a woman over an alleged false kidnapping claim that triggered a mob attack on a commercial motorcyclist in Ore, Odigbo Local Government Area of the state.
The police said the incident occurred on Wednesday when the suspect, identified as Abigael Bright, allegedly accused a motorcyclist, Rasheed Awojobi, of attempting to kidnap her while conveying her from Ogo Oluwa Street to the Idi Mango area of Ore.
The allegation reportedly spread rapidly across the community, attracting the attention of residents and passers-by who descended on the motorcyclist before police operatives intervened.
According to the command, Awojobi sustained injuries to his face and other parts of his body during the attack and was later rescued by officers and taken for medical treatment.
Preliminary investigations, however, revealed that the kidnapping allegation was unfounded.
The police further alleged that the suspect amplified the claim by sharing it on her WhatsApp status, a development said to have heightened tension and fear within the community.
The suspect is currently in police custody and assisting investigators, while the command said appropriate legal action would be taken upon the conclusion of investigations.
Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Felix Ohagwu, expressed concern over the growing trend of false reports and the circulation of unverified information capable of causing public panic and disrupting peace.
Ohagwu warned that false allegations, particularly those relating to kidnapping and other serious crimes, could provoke violent reactions, endanger innocent citizens and erode confidence in lawful procedures.
The police commissioner also condemned the mob action against the motorcyclist, stressing that no individual should be punished based solely on allegations or suspicion.
He described jungle justice as a criminal act that often leads to human rights violations, miscarriage of justice and avoidable loss of lives.
Ohagwu urged residents to report suspicious activities to security agencies for proper investigation rather than resorting to self-help.
He also warned that individuals involved in mob attacks or the deliberate spread of false information capable of inciting public disorder would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The commissioner reaffirmed the command’s commitment to professional and intelligence-led policing, as well as the protection of citizens’ fundamental rights.
He advised members of the public to verify information before sharing it, especially on social media, and to promptly report suspected criminal activities to the nearest police station.
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