The Hawai‘i Police Department is investigating false reports that were circulating online about arrests made in West Hawai‘i. The claims, which suggested that agricultural and retail workers had been arrested in the South Kona area, have been determined to be inaccurate.
On Tuesday, January 21, 2025, police were alerted by members of the community who had seen an image reportedly showing a Border Patrol vehicle at a business in West Hawai‘i, along with claims that four individuals had been arrested in the South Kona area. Following an investigation, police traced the photo to a website known for spreading misinformation. Additionally, Hawai‘i Police Department personnel confirmed that no arrests had taken place in South Kona as reported.
In light of the situation, the police department urged the public to be cautious of manipulated images and information, which have become easier to create with advancements in technology, including artificial intelligence. They encouraged people to verify any suspicious content before drawing conclusions or sharing it.
The Hawai‘i Police Department also shared tips for identifying potential misinformation:
- Reverse Image Search: If you suspect an image is fake, use Google Image Search to find out where the image came from or if it has been used elsewhere.
- Validate Information: Legitimate news posts will provide specific details, such as answers to who, what, when, where, why, and how.
- Look for Red Flags: Be cautious of anonymous posts, requests for money, or new social media profiles with few followers.
If you encounter suspicious information, the public is urged to report it to Police Dispatch at (808) 935-3311 or dial 911 in case of an emergency.