Police Urge Public to Stop Spreading Misinformation Following False Wigston Bus Claim

Police have issued a stern warning against the spreading of false information on social media after dropping an investigation into allegations involving young girls in Wigston, Leicestershire.

The investigation, launched on Thursday, October 9, was prompted by Facebook posts alleging inappropriate behavior toward young girls on Bell Street in Wigston and on Arriva Buses. However, after conducting CCTV inquiries, Leicestershire Police determined that the accused male had committed “no wrongdoing.”

Authorities confirmed that no official complaints had been filed with either Arriva Buses or the police, making it impossible to verify the accusations that had circulated widely online. The unsubstantiated claims had generated significant community anxiety before being disproven.

“These posts have caused undue concern and worry for many people, with the evidence currently showing it wasn’t required,” said an officer from the Oadby and Wigston beat team. The police statement emphasized how quickly misinformation can spread and create unnecessary public alarm.

The incident highlights a growing challenge for law enforcement agencies across the UK as they grapple with the rapid dissemination of unverified claims on social media platforms. Such posts can quickly reach thousands of local residents before authorities have an opportunity to investigate properly.

In their statement, Leicestershire Police took the opportunity to outline the serious consequences of sharing unverified information online. They warned that individuals who spread “malicious or false information” could face prosecution in the future. This reflects increasing concerns about the real-world impact of social media rumors on both public safety and individual rights.

The police highlighted multiple risks associated with premature social media accusations. Such posts can put falsely accused individuals at risk of targeted harassment or vigilante behavior. Additionally, they noted that viral misinformation can seriously impede ongoing investigations by contaminating evidence, influencing witnesses, or creating public pressure that complicates objective police work.

This case occurs amid a national conversation about responsible social media use. Several recent high-profile incidents across the UK have demonstrated how online rumors can quickly escalate, sometimes leading to public disorder or threats against innocent individuals. Police forces nationwide have been developing strategies to combat misinformation while still encouraging legitimate reporting of concerns.

Community policing experts note that social media can be both a valuable tool for public safety and a potential source of harm when misused. The balance between encouraging public vigilance and preventing false accusations remains challenging for law enforcement.

Leicestershire Police have encouraged anyone with concerns about the posts made on the “Spotted Wigston” Facebook page to contact them directly via their non-emergency number, 101, and ask to speak with PC 1913 Gareth Morgan.

The force reaffirmed its commitment to thoroughly investigating all legitimate concerns about public safety, particularly those involving vulnerable individuals such as children. However, they stressed that such reports should be made directly to authorities rather than aired on social media platforms before verification.

Local community leaders have echoed the police’s call for responsible social media use, emphasizing that while community awareness is important, verification of facts must come before public accusations.