Confusion enveloped Akure, Ondo State yesterday over the rumour of an attack on one of the first generation banks in the town.
Some customers, who had visited the Alagbaka branch of First Bank for transactions, said they were chased out of the banking hall by security operatives over suspected ongoing robbery at the Oke-Aro branch of the bank.
With the rumour making the rounds, most of the banks in Akure immediately locked their gates while security guards mounted strategic positions in preparation for any attack.
Despite confirmation that the Oke-Aro attack was a false alarm, most residents deserted the roads where most of the banks are located.
The apprehension was further heightened following the deployment of battle-ready security operatives who took over major streets of the town.
Dispelling the rumour, the state Police Command urged residents to go about their normal duties without any fear.
The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), CSP Femi Joseph, said in a statement that, “the Ondo State Police Command wishes to inform the general public especially the citizens of the state to disregard any rumour of bank robbery or attempted bank robbery in Akure or anywhere in the state.
“We make bold to say that the story is not only false and mischievous but also wicked and lacks substance as no such incident happened anywhere in the state.
“We urge the good people of the state to disregard this rumour, as it is nothing but a blatant lie from the pit of hell.
“Our men are everywhere across the state to deal with any manner of crime or criminality.”
