COVINGTON, Ga. — The buzz on social media around Newton County this weekend was about kidnapping threats reported around local businesses.

Police said there was no truth to the talk.

Justin Stott, criminal intelligence officer and public information officer for Covington police, said he checked reports Sunday and found nothing to back up the claims making the rounds.

In a Facebook post later in the day, the Police Department addressed the rumors. It noted people said they’ve been approached by people attempting to engage them in conversation at Newton Plaza and near the Walmart.

“There is an actual church group that gathers in these areas on Friday evenings and shares information about their ministries,” the Police Department said.

“This group is known to the police and is legitimate.”