Bayelsa Police Debunk Viral Claim of Four Girls Found Dead in Akenfa, Confirm Ritual Suspect Arrest
The Bayelsa State Police Command has dismissed as false and misleading a viral social media claim alleging that four girls were found dead in an uncompleted building in Akenfa, Yenagoa.
PulseNets learnt that the police described the report as entirely unfounded, stressing that no such incident was recorded at the Akenfa Police Station or anywhere within the Yenagoa metropolis.
According to information obtained by PulseNets, the Command stated unequivocally that there were no reports of multiple deaths in the area, contrary to claims circulating online and causing public panic.
However, police authorities clarified that a related but different incident did occur. PulseNets gathered that on Monday, January 19, 2026, at about 3:30 p.m., operatives of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Unit responded to a distress call in Akenfa Community.
During the operation, officers reportedly arrested one Ogbe Joseph (male) inside an underground apartment suspected to be operating as a shrine. The location was said to be within an uncompleted storey building in the Akenfa axis of Yenagoa.
Police sources told PulseNets that the suspect was apprehended for allegedly attempting to use a 49-year-old man, whose name was withheld, for suspected ritual purposes. The victim was discovered in a weakened condition and appeared to have been drugged.
PulseNets reported that the man was rescued alive and immediately taken to a hospital for urgent medical attention, where he is currently receiving treatment, while investigations into the incident continue.
Reacting to the spread of the false report, the Commissioner of Police cautioned members of the public against relying on unverified information. He urged residents to exercise restraint and avoid sharing reports capable of triggering fear or public disorder.
“Members of the public are advised to disregard unconfirmed stories and always verify information through official police channels,” the CP said, according to details made available to PulseNets.
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The Bayelsa State Police Command reiterated its commitment to the protection of lives and property across the state. Residents were encouraged to promptly report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police station or contact the Command Control Room via 07034578208 or 09167322691.
The clarification was issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Musa Mohammed, on behalf of the Bayelsa State Police Command in Yenagoa.
