The Kwara State Police Command has dismissed claims that bandits fleeing Zamfara State have relocated to Bani community in Baruten Local Government Area.

The denial followed a report by an online outlet on Sunday alleging that armed bandits had settled in the area. In a statement, the police command’s spokesperson, Toun Ejire-Adeyemi, categorically refuted the claims, labelling them “false and misleading.”

He stated that the command has maintained vigilant security operations across the state and that no such influx of bandits has been recorded. The police urged the public to rely on verified information and avoid circulating unconfirmed reports that could incite panic or undermine public safety.

The statement reads: “The attention of the Kwara State Police Command has been drawn to a report alleging that armed bandits fleeing military offensives in Zamfara State have relocated to Bani town in Kwara State.

“The Command wishes to categorically debunk this claim as false, misleading, with intent of mischief makers to cause unnecessary panic among residents in the state

“There is no intelligence or operational report to support the presence of armed bandits in Bani. The Kwara police command, in collaboration with other security agencies, remains vigilant and has intensified surveillance across the state to prevent any security breach.

“The Commissioner of Police, CP Victor Olaiya, assures residents that Kwara remains safe and that the police are fully prepared to respond to any security threats. He urges the public to disregard such unverified reports and avoid spreading misinformation.

“For credible security information, residents should reach out to the Kwara State Police Command through its official channels. For emergencies, call the kwara control room numbers: 07032069501 or 08125275046.”