Police nab two for spreading false video to stir up community fight

The police in Anambra State have arrested two suspects for allegedly sharing a false video that could worsen the ongoing conflict between Aguleri and Umuoba Anam communities in the state.

The police spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, shared this news in a statement on Tuesday.

Reports say that at least five people died, many houses were burned, and lives were disrupted in early October due to a violent clash between Amaeze Aguleri and Umuoba Anam in Anambra East Local Government Area.

The Anambra State Government had previously closed the Otuocha Market following the turmoil in the area. They also created a judicial commission of inquiry to look into the deadly clash.

False, inciting video

Mr Ikenga, a police superintendent, noted in the Tuesday statement that the suspects were captured on 26 October by local community members and then handed over to the police.

The suspects are identified as Chimezie Peter, 17, and Sunday Offordile.

"Initial reports show that the suspects were caught while filming a video of some people from Umueri coming back from their farms. The video falsely claimed that these individuals were armed men from Aguleri waiting to attack and kill anyone from Umuoba Anam passing by," he said.

Mr Ikenga mentioned that the situation surrounding the video, including where it came from and its intended purpose, is under investigation.

"The Command is very worried that sharing misleading information like this could lead to revenge attacks, increase community tensions, and disrupt peace efforts," he added.

Investigations still ongoing

Mr Ikenga told reporters that the suspects gave statements relevant to the accusations during their initial questioning.

He emphasized that the police are still investigating the matter and that they need to clarify the facts before any conclusions can be drawn.

"The suspects are being taken to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Awka for further inquiry and necessary legal action," he stated.

Commissioner’s warning and assurances

Mr Ikenga reported that the Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Nnanna Ama, has confirmed the Command’s commitment to ensuring safety and order while preventing further community disputes through smart policing and working with local community members.

Mr Ama warned the public against recording, sharing, or spreading unverified content and provocative stories that could misrepresent situations and cause violence between nearby communities.

He urged residents to check the facts before sharing information and to report security issues through the right channels instead of spreading rumors or inflammatory posts.

The police chief also promised that they would keep working with traditional leaders, community heads, vigilante groups, and other important stakeholders to maintain peace, encourage understanding, and ensure that anyone involved in criminal activities would face the law.

He further asked the people of Aguleri, Umuoba Anam, and Umueri to stay calm, show restraint, and support ongoing peace efforts.

"No person or group should take the law into their own hands or retaliate based on unverified information," he pleaded.