(The Suspect Arrested. Photo Credit: The Sun Nigeria)
Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested a 22-year-old suspect, Onipede Ojo, for allegedly stealing a police officer’s bag and using the contents to impersonate a serving officer.
The stolen bag reportedly contained a camouflage uniform, warrant card, mobile phone, ATM card, and other personal belongings.
The command said the suspect allegedly wore the stolen uniform in an attempt to pass himself off as a genuine police officer.
In a video that circulated online, Ojo claimed he found the uniform which bore the name tag of an inspector identified as Jimoh Weheed along Maryland Road in Lagos.
However, vigilant residents grew suspicious after observing that his behaviour and mannerisms were inconsistent with those of a serving officer, prompting them to question him and eventually hand him over to the police.
The Lagos State Police Command confirmed that Ojo is currently in custody, with investigations ongoing, and that he would be charged to court upon the conclusion of the probe.
The command commended residents for their vigilance and civic responsibility, while also condemning all forms of jungle justice and warning against extrajudicial punishment regardless of the nature of an alleged offence.
It stressed that the laws of Lagos State do not permit such conduct and urged the public to always hand suspects over to law enforcement for proper investigation and prosecution.
The command further called on residents to remain security-conscious and to continue supporting the police by promptly reporting suspicious persons, movements, and activities.
