BONGANI MALUNGA
The Botswana Police Service has issued a stern warning against the spread of fake news and misinformation on social media, cautioning that those who create or share false information could face criminal prosecution.
In a statement issued on June 2, police expressed concern over an increase in fabricated stories circulating online, often causing public fear, confusion and alarm.
The BPS said self styled online publishers and social media users are spreading false information that can disrupt public peace and undermine social and economic stability.
The warning follows a Facebook post that falsely claimed a 48 year old man had been murdered by teenagers in Block 6. Police later confirmed the report was false.
LEGAL WARNING
Despite lacking factual basis, the post attracted more than 1,500 reactions, with many users treating it as genuine, highlighting how misinformation spreads online.
Police cited Section 59 of the Penal Code, which prohibits false statements or rumours likely to cause fear or public alarm, and Section 18 of the Cybercrime and Computer Related Crimes Act, which criminalises malicious electronic communication intended to disturb another person’s peace.
Offenders may face fines of up to P20,000, imprisonment for up to one year, or both upon conviction. The BPS urged the public to verify information before sharing it and to use social media responsibly.