Kwara State Police Command has dismissed reports circulating on social media alleging that suspected Boko Haram members were arrested in Ilorin, the state capital.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Police Public Relations Officer Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, the command said the report was false and capable of causing panic among residents.
The police explained that the incident involved a stop and search operation carried out on a truck conveying Fulani travellers through Ilorin on Tuesday night.
According to the statement, operatives attached to the Violent Crime Response Unit intercepted the truck during an intelligence-led surveillance operation.
“The Command states emphatically that no Boko Haram member was arrested anywhere within the state,” the statement said.
The police said the vehicle and its occupants were screened and searched in line with security procedures, adding that no weapon, incriminating item or threat to public safety was found.
The travellers reportedly told security operatives they were heading to Jigawa State.
Their details were documented before they were allowed to continue their journey under police escort out of Ilorin.
The command warned residents against spreading unverified security information, saying false reports could create fear and tension.
Meanwhile, the police confirmed the arrest of three suspected robbers and vandals in another operation around the Asa Dam and Dangote Road area of Ilorin.
The suspects were arrested by officers of the Violent Crime Response Unit following complaints from residents about criminal activities in the area.
Police said intelligence gathering and surveillance led operatives to suspicious movements around Tanke in the early hours of Tuesday.
According to the command, investigations linked the suspects to a gang involved in vandalising public solar light installations and carrying out robbery operations in parts of Ilorin.
Recovered items included two locally made pistols, pliers and substances suspected to be hard drugs.
The police added that preliminary investigations showed the suspects were connected to a wider criminal network operating in Ilorin and nearby communities.
Commissioner of Police Adekimi Ojo commended the efforts of the operatives and said the command would continue intelligence-led operations to maintain security across the state.
