The Lagos State Police Command has dismissed claims circulating online that an officer was caught stealing in a viral video, describing the narrative as false and misleading.
The video, which spread widely on Wednesday, showed a police officer with a swollen face and a bleeding nose, surrounded by angry members of the public shouting “ole” (thief).
In a statement on Thursday, Lagos police spokesperson Abimbola Adebisi explained that the incident actually occurred while the officer, attached to the Lagos State Taskforce, was enforcing a ban on illegal parking along Brown Street, Oshodi. The confrontation began when the officer stopped a motorist attempting to park illegally.
According to Adebisi, the situation escalated quickly, during which the officer accidentally discharged his firearm, causing debris to strike nearby bystanders. The angry crowd then attacked the officer, resulting in serious injuries.
“The motorist reacted violently, which led to a heated confrontation. During this, the Inspector accidentally discharged his firearm, and debris from the impact affected some passersby,” Adebisi said.
The police spokesperson confirmed that the officer has faced disciplinary measures for his actions, in line with standard police procedures. Meanwhile, 13 individuals involved in the attack on the officer have been arrested and are currently in police custody. They are:
* Dele Oriade, 39, male
* Adekunle Olalere, 40, male
* Mudashiru Olamilekan, 28, male
* Anayo Achusie, 34, male
* Joshua Enwonyin, 24, male
* Okoro Okechukwu, 26, male
* Rilwan Lateef, 32, male
* Damilare Odebode, 22, male
* Haruna Aleshi, 25, female
* Sodiq Omoniyi, 26, male
* Chukwudi Patience, 25, female
* Godstime Okafor, 26, female
* Chinedu Divine, 29, male
The suspects are expected to face prosecution following the conclusion of ongoing investigations.
