The Ondo State Police Command has arrested a woman over an alleged false kidnapping claim that led to the assault of a commercial motorcyclist in Ore, Odigbo Local Government Area of the state.
The command said the incident occurred on June 4, 2026, 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.
According to the police, the allegation quickly spread across the community, attracting residents and passers-by who descended on the rider before officers arrived and restored order.
The victim reportedly sustained injuries to his face and other parts of his body during the attack.
Preliminary investigations by the police, however, indicated that the kidnapping allegation was false.
The command further alleged that the suspect circulated the claim on her WhatsApp status, an action that heightened public anxiety and contributed to the spread of misinformation within the community.
Police spokesperson in the state, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed in a statement on Saturday that the suspect had been taken into custody and was cooperating with investigators.
He added that the injured motorcyclist was rescued and given medical attention, noting that appropriate legal action would be taken upon the conclusion of investigations.
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police, Felix Ohagwu, expressed concern over what he described as the growing trend of false reports and the reckless dissemination of unverified information capable of causing panic and disturbing public peace.
Ohagwu warned that allegations involving serious crimes such as kidnapping could provoke violent reactions, place innocent lives at risk and weaken public confidence in lawful procedures.
The police commissioner also condemned the mob attack on the motorcyclist, stressing that no individual should be punished based solely on suspicion or unverified accusations.
He described jungle justice as a criminal act that often results in human rights violations, miscarriages of justice and preventable loss of lives.
The CP urged residents to report complaints and suspicions to law enforcement agencies rather than resorting to self-help, warning that those involved in mob actions or the deliberate spread of false information would be prosecuted.
He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to professional and intelligence-driven policing, while advising members of the public to verify information before sharing it, especially on social media platforms.
The command reiterated its resolve to maintain law and order, protect innocent citizens and ensure justice is served in all circumstances.