Authorities in Anambra have moved to debunk alarming social media rumours suggesting that over 6,400 Fulani gunmen are infiltrating local communities, insisting the reports are baseless.
The Anambra State Police Command and the Agunechemba Security Squad described the claims as false and unverified following preliminary investigations. Despite dismissing the rumours, both agencies said they are taking no chances. Police operatives, local vigilante groups, and joint security teams have been deployed for 24-hour surveillance across major rural hotspots in the state.
Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the circulating voice notes and social media posts lacked credible evidence, “Preliminary assessments indicate that these messages have no verified credibility. However, the Command has adopted proactive measures to ensure that no security concern, real or fabricated, is ignored”, he stated.
SP Ikenga added that the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has instructed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, Tactical Units, and Joint Security Teams to maintain heightened alertness, strengthen intelligence gathering, and sustain aggressive patrol operations day and night.
Similarly, Special Adviser to Governor Charles Soludo on Community Security, Kenneth Emeakayi, issued directives emphasizing collaboration between state and federal security agencies to identify and dismantle crime hotspots.
Emeakayi urged residents to remain calm and continue their daily activities without fear, warning that individuals spreading unverified security threats would be investigated. He reassured Ndi-Anambra, including those returning from abroad for Christmas and New Year celebrations, that robust security measures are in place.
“Areas previously under criminal control have been reclaimed by our operatives, making it extremely dangerous for wrongdoers to attempt harassment or kidnapping in Anambra State”, he said.
Both the Police Command and Agunechemba Squad reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state during the festive season and beyond.
