Anambra Police Launch Manhunt for Peddlers of Fake Information Aimed at Instilling Fear

Anambra State Commissioner CP Ikioye Orutugu

Anambra State Police Command has commenced an intensive manhunt for individuals and groups responsible for spreading false and misleading information designed to instil fear and apprehension among residents of the state.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, on Sunday convened an emergency closed-door meeting with all Area Commanders and Tactical Commanders to strategise on curbing the deliberate spread of misinformation, particularly as it relates to the enforcement of the Monday “sit-at-home” order, which continues to cripple the state’s economy.

The meeting followed a comprehensive security assessment on the implications of the full resumption of social, commercial, and official activities in Anambra State on Mondays.

According to the Command, intelligence reports revealed a recurring and coordinated pattern of social media posts aimed at spreading fear, misinformation, and divisive narratives among members of the public.

The Police Command expressed deep concern over what it described as unfounded and malicious narratives being circulated by miscreants, noting that such actions are intended to cause panic, undermine public confidence, and disrupt the prevailing peace in the state.

The Command assured residents that its dragnet has already been deployed to track down and arrest those behind the false information.

In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the Command declared its readiness to confront any individual or group found to be frustrating efforts to permanently end the sit-at-home order.

He stressed that offenders would be made to face the full weight of the law.

SP Ikenga noted that despite these provocations, the people of Anambra State have remained vigilant, discerning, and united, refusing to succumb to fear-mongering and divisive propaganda.

“The resilience, cooperation, and timely sharing of credible information by residents continue to play a critical role in sustaining public order and safety,” the statement said.

He added that the active participation of the public is key to stemming the activities of those intent on destabilising the state.
As part of proactive measures, CP Ikioye Orutugu, fwc, mnips, PhD, on Saturday, 1st February 2026, ordered the immediate intensification of intelligence-led patrols, security surveillance, and proactive policing operations across the state to forestall any threat to lives and property.
The Commissioner further directed officers and men of the Command to maintain a strong presence across all parts of the state while sustaining close collaboration with other security agencies.
The Command reassured residents that adequate security arrangements have been put in place and urged the public to remain calm, law-abiding, and security-conscious.

Residents were also advised to disregard unverified social media content and to promptly report any suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police formation or through established emergency channels.

Officers in charge of various joint security formations across the state, as well as a representative of the Anambra State Government on security matters, were in attendance at the meeting.

The Anambra State Police Command reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to maintaining peace, safeguarding lives and property, and ensuring the protection of all residents and visitors to the state.