The Ogun State Police Command on Wednesday dismissed claims of an imminent robbery attack contained in some viral video clips circulating in the state.
The command announced that an investigation revealed that these videos were generated from artificial intelligence by a group of criminals with the sole purpose of spreading lies and panic across the country.
The command said that while its operatives are working diligently to nab the culprits of the fake video clip, citizens of the state should carry out lawful activities as all measures are being taken to ensure that there is no harm to the security fabric of the state.
Spokesman of the state police command, Superintendent of Police Omolola Odutola, disclosed this in a statement made available to journalists on Wednesday.
“The command wishes to address concerns arising out of the circulation of video clips on social media in which unidentified individuals issue threats against certain communities and tertiary institutions in the state,” Odutola said.
“Following a forensic analysis by our country’s Cyber Crime and Intelligence Division, the Command hereby states:
“The video clips in circulation were created using artificial intelligence (AI) by a covert individual or group whose identity has not yet been identified. The content does not originate from any known terrorist organization or operational force.”
“The Ogun State Police Command is working with determination and precision to uncover the identity of the individuals or networks responsible for creating and disseminating these misleading video clips.
“The first appearance of this footage was traced to foreign online sources approximately three months ago, and the content has since resurfaced in various forms on various platforms.
“At this time, there is no reliable intelligence indicating a planned attack on Ogun State, its communities, schools, or public institutions.”
The command therefore calls on the public to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified materials, and continue lawful activities without fear.
Police also encouraged residents to immediately report any suspicious persons, movements or activities to the nearest police station.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, further directed enhanced surveillance, intensified patrolling and continued cooperation between government agencies to ensure the continued peace and security of all residents.
The command said the state remains safe, stable and completely secure and the police, in collaboration with other agencies and stakeholders, remains unwaveringly committed to protecting lives and property in the state.
