The Lagos State Taskforce has apprehended two suspected impersonators for posing as officials of the agency and extorting unsuspecting motorists in the Oshodi-Iyana Ipaja axis of the state.
The suspects, identified as Paul Anthony (42) and Mukaila Adepo (31), were arrested at Bolade Bus Stop, inward Oshodi-Iyana Ipaja Expressway, by plainclothes operatives of the Taskforce during routine patrol, reports The Nation.
The duo, residents of Eniola Adesanya Street and Titilayo Street in Mafoluku and Oshodi, respectively, are believed to be part of a larger syndicate that falsely accuses drivers of traffic offences such as one-way driving, while masquerading as law enforcement officers.
Chairman of the Taskforce, CSP Adetayo Akerele, condemned the criminal act and vowed to bring all perpetrators to justice.
“We are determined to prosecute all individuals involved in impersonation and unlawful traffic enforcement. These acts drag the name of the agency through the mud, and we will not tolerate it,” he said.
CSP Akerele reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to ridding Lagos highways of criminal elements, stating that the present administration is focused on restoring order and public confidence in state enforcement institutions.
“We are making Lagos uninhabitable for environmental and criminally minded detractors,” he added.
He urged residents to report suspicious activities through the agency’s feedback channels to support the ongoing clampdown on impersonators and illegal enforcement gangs.
The two suspects have been arraigned in court, where they pleaded not guilty. They have been remanded in a correctional facility pending further legal proceedings.
In a related development, the Taskforce also intensified enforcement operations on the ban of commercial motorcycles (popularly known as okada) on restricted routes across the State.
During the operation carried out in the Mile 2 Bridge, Agboju, and Apple Junction areas of Festac, the agency impounded a total of 69 motorcycles. These areas had seen a resurgence of okada operators defying the State’s directives and constituting a public nuisance.
CSP Akerele noted that the operation was part of ongoing efforts to ensure compliance with the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law of 2018.
He emphasised that all impounded motorcycles would be forfeited to the State through the courts.
“The Taskforce will continue to enforce all laws geared towards safeguarding the lives and property of Lagosians. We are committed to restoring order and ensuring that our highways are safe and free from illegal commercial activities,” he concluded.
