OPINION: Politics, deception, and weaponisation of security narratives

Dr. Harun Issack Hassan, PhD Professor of Psychology and Governance Leadership and Public Policy Expert./HANDOUT

In recent times, a troubling pattern has emerged within the political landscape: allegations of abduction involving high-profile individuals that later appear staged, exaggerated, or entirely fabricated.

This phenomenon, particularly when associated with influential figures, risks eroding public trust in both genuine victims of crime and the institutions tasked with protecting them.

At the heart of this issue lies a dangerous intersection between politics and psychological manipulation.

When claims of abduction are used as tools for political sympathy or to discredit state institutions, the consequences extend far beyond individual cases.

Such actions undermine the credibility of legitimate security concerns and place unnecessary strain on law enforcement agencies already grappling with complex and evolving threats.

False or misleading narratives of abduction can distort public perception, creating a climate of suspicion and fear. When the public is led to believe that security agencies are engaged in unlawful conduct without credible evidence, it fuels resentment and can incite unrest.

In a society where trust in institutions is essential for stability, such narratives can have far-reaching and destabilising effects. Recent cases involving prominent individuals have highlighted this concern. Allegations initially framed as serious security breaches have, upon investigation, revealed inconsistencies or outright falsehoods.

These incidents not only divert critical resources from genuine cases but also weaken the urgency and responsiveness of security agencies when real threats arise.

In this regard, detectives led by the Director of Criminal Investigations have demonstrated professionalism and diligence in exposing instances of staged abduction claims.

Their work in clarifying the facts surrounding the case of Hon. Raphael Tugu serves as a critical reminder of the importance of evidence-based investigations.

Such efforts deserve recognition for safeguarding public confidence and ensuring that misinformation does not take root. Equally important is accountability.

Individuals who knowingly report false incidents or amplify unverified claims through social media contribute to public confusion and institutional distrust.

Where investigations establish deliberate misinformation or malicious intent, appropriate legal action should be pursued in accordance with the law to deter similar conduct in the future.

Law enforcement bodies operate within a framework that demands professionalism, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law.

Their work is increasingly complex, shaped by technological advancements, transnational crime, and the rapid spread of information both accurate and false, through digital platforms.

The deliberate dissemination of misleading claims exploits this environment, weaponising public opinion against the very systems designed to ensure safety. It is therefore imperative that the independence and integrity of security institutions be respected.

These bodies must not be drawn into political contests or used as shields for individuals seeking to evade accountability. Equally, there must be firm and consistent consequences for those who intentionally propagate false claims that threaten public order or undermine institutional trust.

From a psychological perspective, such actions can be understood as forms of strategic manipulation—efforts to influence public sentiment, generate sympathy, and shift narratives in one’s favour.

However, when these tactics are employed irresponsibly, they risk triggering broader societal consequences, including polarisation and civil unrest.

Moving forward, a balanced approach is necessary. Genuine victims of crime must be protected and supported without hesitation, while false claims must be thoroughly investigated and addressed with appropriate legal and social consequences.

Public awareness is equally critical; citizens must remain discerning, questioning narratives and seeking verified information before forming conclusions. Ultimately, the stability of any society depends on trust, trust in institutions, in leadership, and in the rule of law.

Preserving that trust requires responsibility from all actors, particularly those in positions of influence. Political expression and accountability are fundamental to democracy, but they must not come at the cost of truth, security, and social cohesion.

The writer is a PhD Professor of Psychology, Governance, Leadership and Public Policy Expert