The Katsina State Police Command has firmly dismissed social media reports alleging that villagers and bandits in Safana Local Government Area engaged in a so-called “hostage swap,” describing the claims as false, unfounded, and deliberately malicious.
According to the Command, the viral posts suggested that bandits allegedly abducted residents of Babban Duhu, Sabon Birni, and Babanli villages, prompting villagers to capture relatives of the criminals to force an exchange. But a comprehensive investigation—supported by intelligence units and community leaders—confirmed that no such incident occurred anywhere in Safana LGA.
In a strongly worded statement, the Command warned that the peddling of such misinformation is dangerous and capable of creating fear, undermining public confidence, and disrupting the relative peace the state currently enjoys.
The Police urged residents to remain calm, stay vigilant, and avoid circulating unverified claims that could endanger lives. Citizens are encouraged to report credible information through the Command’s emergency lines: 08156977777, 07072722539, and 09022209690.
DSP Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu, PPRO, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property while calling for continued cooperation from the public as Katsina works to sustain peace and security across all communities.
