Dare Babalola
The Lagos State Police Command has denied a viral video’s claim that an Inspector was beaten for stealing, saying the narrative is “false and misleading”.
In a statement signed by Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi on Thursday, the Inspector, part of the Lagos State Taskforce, was enforcing a ban on wrong parking along Brown Street, Oshodi, when a confrontation with a motorist turned violent.
In the incident, the officer accidentally discharged shots, hitting debris that affected passersby, and was then assaulted by a mob.
“The Inspector has been subjected to disciplinary actions in line with established police procedures for his unprofessional conduct,” the Command stated
Thirteen suspects involved in the assault have been arrested and will be prosecuted after investigations.
“In the same vein, thirteen (13) suspects captured in the viral video assaulting the officer have been arrested, currently in police custody, and will be prosecuted upon the completion of investigations,” the statement added.
They include, Dele Oriade ‘m’ aged 39 years, Adekunle Olalere ‘m’ aged 40 years, Mudashiru Olamilekan ‘m’ aged 28 years, Anayo Achusie 34 years, Joshua Enwonyin ‘m’ aged 24 years, Okoro Okechukwu ‘m’ 26 years, Rilwan Lateef ‘m’ aged 32 years, Damilare Odebode ‘m’ aged
22 years, Haruna Aleshi ‘n’ 25 years, Sodiq Omoniyi ‘m’ aged 26 years, Chukwudi Patience ‘f’ aged 25 years, Godstime Okafor ‘f’ 26 years, Chinedu Divine ‘m’ 29 years.
“The Commissioner of Police strongly warns against any form of attack on police officers performing lawful duties. Assaulting law enforcement officers is a criminal offence and will not be condoned,” the statement read.
The Command urged the public to stay calm, avoid misinformation, and cooperate in maintaining law and order.
