Oro Police will crack down on cybercrime, especially targeting those spreading false information on social media.
Oro Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Ewai Segi, today warned that offenders using online platforms to cause unrest or defame progress will face the full force of the law under the Cyber Crimes Act.
“I am all for freedom of speech, but those spreading defamatory and disaffection statements must stop or be prosecuted,” PPC Segi stated.
He explained that misleading content creates tension and affects essential services like power, water, health, and education.
“The dissemination of misleading content can sow discord and create unnecessary tension within the community, government and servants of essential utility services.”
Segi urged social media users to verify information before posting and called on the community to report harmful content.
“I want to urge all online trolls who are actively disseminating information on social media platforms to do so using facts, verify their claims via credible sources before going to air on social media platforms.”
“I encourage the wider community to come forward and report any suspicious or harmful posts for police to take action against those elements of misinformation,” PPC Segi urged, further appealing, “If you are going to engage, do so in a constructive manner that creates healthy informative debate and discussion.”
He also cautioned police officers not to participate in spreading false information, warning that they will also face consequences.
“I have also warned members of the Oro Police if there is any officer involved in disseminating false or misleading information on social media, you too will be dealt with criminally and administratively under the cybercrimes Act.”
Oro Provincial Administrator Trevor Magei echoed Segi’s concerns, calling trolls “the lowest form of lazy people.”
Magei confirms working closely with the PPC and police to combat misinformation on social media.