False reports regarding attempted child abductions and lures in Cene and Fiorano al Serio spread rapidly across WhatsApp chat groups on September 28, 2026, prompting local authorities to issue a joint denial. The rumors falsely claimed that minors had been targeted near a sports center and an elementary school by individuals operating a white van.
Joint Statement from Local Administrations Denies Abduction Rumors
The administrations of Cene and Fiorano al Serio published a joint statement on September 28, 2026, addressing the unverified messages circulating on messaging platforms. According to the municipal announcement, local authorities conducted immediate checks regarding reported incidents near the Fiorano al Serio sports center and a Cene elementary school. The investigation confirmed that the reports were entirely baseless and that no such events occurred.
Municipal leaders urged residents to exercise responsibility, emphasizing that suspicious situations must be reported exclusively to law enforcement rather than shared through unverified social media posts and chat groups. The statement noted that the only reliable sources for public safety information are official announcements from public administrations or police forces.
Legal Consequences and Official Warnings Regarding Fake News
Local authorities highlighted that spreading false reports creates unwarranted public alarm and can carry criminal penalties. Officials warned that unverified messages obstruct the normal investigative work carried out by competent authorities.
The joint communication concluded with an expression of gratitude toward the Local Police of Cene and Fiorano al Serio alongside the Carabinieri Station of Fiorano al Serio for their continuous operational synergy, prompt interventions, and ongoing territorial monitoring.