BY ROMINAH FAKA

Court has issued a warrant of arrest for a man accused of spreading false information causing fear and panic last year.

Junior Harry Gereniu was arrested and charged with spreading false information to public in October last year.

The warrant was issued after Gereniu failed to attend his court hearing yesterday.

Gereniu had pleaded guilty to one count of spreading false information likely to cause fear and panic in the community, contrary to section 63 of the Penal Code.

The matter was moved to January 17 for sentence and review of warrant if the warrant of arrest was not executed.

It was alleged on October 19, 2024 at 9.15pm, the accused appeared on a post on Facebook, alleging that a White Toyota Rav 4 without a plate number had attempted to abduct him, using a hook to steal a basket containing a passport and visa.

The RSIPF began investigating the alleged kidnapping on October 25,2024 after public panic and temporary school closures.

The accused later admitted to fabricating the story based on exaggerated remorse.

The false information allegedly caused widespread panic, resulting in schools being closed and police intervention.

Office of Police Prosecution Department act for crown and PSO for the defendants Gereniu.