LAGOS TASKFORCE APPREHENDS DISMISSED OFFICER IN VIRAL VIDEO OVER ALLEGED EXTORTION, IMPERSONATION.
…….The Agency warns criminal elements to shun criminal activities or face the wrath of the law.
The Lagos State Taskforce has arrested a dismissed personnel of the Agency, identified as Yahaya Salami, popularly known as Adams, who was captured in a viral video being forcefully apprehended in Oshodi by operatives of the Agency over alleged impersonation.
Salami, a former paramilitary operative attached to the Lagos State Taskforce, was dismissed from service several months ago over alleged gross misconduct, including theft, the use of a fake identity card, extortion of motorists and traders, indiscipline and other acts considered contrary to the standards and regulations of the Agency. Despite his dismissal, he allegedly continued to parade himself as a serving official of the Taskforce.
The arrest, which has since generated reactions following the circulation of the video on social media, was carried out at Oshodi Bus Stop, Lagos, today, after previous efforts to track him down proved unsuccessful.
Accordingly, the suspect was invited for questioning when the agency’s operatives accosted him, but turned down the invitation and resisted arrest despite being confronted by operatives of the Taskforce. However, through effective tactical coordination and professionalism with minimal force, the officers successfully brought the situation under control and apprehended him.
The Chairman of the Lagos State Taskforce, CSP Adetayo Akerele wishes to clarify that the individual seen in the viral video is a former operative who no longer has any affiliation with the Lagos State Taskforce. His alleged continued impersonation of the Agency’s personnel is a serious concern, as such conduct can mislead members of the public and undermine confidence in the legitimate activities of law enforcement officers.
The arrest underscores the Taskforce’s resolve to prevent dismissed personnel and other unauthorised individuals from exploiting its name, identity and authority for unlawful purposes.
The Agency’s ongoing sensitisation and advocacy programmes across the 57 Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas of Lagos State are designed to educate residents on compliance with existing laws, promote orderliness and enhance public safety. These efforts also align with the Agency’s sustained public enlightenment initiatives targeting commercial motorcycle operators and other road users on the dos and don’ts of operating along restricted routes, driving against traffic (oneway)including the coastal road and other parts of the State.
The suspect is expected to be charged before a court of competent jurisdiction on Monday, subject to the conclusion of the necessary procedures.
The Chairman of the Agency further warned individuals and criminal elements attempting to tarnish the image of the Agency through impersonation or other unlawful acts to desist immediately or face the full consequences of the law.
He stressed that the Agency would not tolerate any attempt by dismissed personnel or unauthorised individuals to falsely present themselves as serving officers or engage in activities capable of bringing the institution into disrepute.
Akerele also urged members of the public to remain vigilant, verify the identities of individuals claiming to be Taskforce officials and report suspicious activities through appropriate channels
He also urged members of the Fourth Estate of the Realm, to uphold the principles of responsible journalism by thoroughly investigating allegations, verifying facts and obtaining perspectives from all relevant parties before publication. He stressed that balanced and factual reporting is essential to ensuring fairness, preventing misinformation and maintaining public confidence.
The Lagos State Taskforce remains committed to upholding the law, protecting residents and ensuring that its name and authority are not abused by individuals acting outside the limits of their lawful mandate.
See Something, Say Something.
Gbadeyan Abdulraheem
Director, Public Affairs
Lagos State Taskforce
