The Lagos State Police Command has detained five officers, including an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), for allegedly assaulting a motorist during a stop-and-search operation.
The officers were arrested after a video showing the assault went viral on social media. The footage captured one of the policemen slapping a driver during what was supposed to be a routine vehicle check.
The incident reportedly happened while the officers were demanding the driver’s vehicle documents. The video drew widespread public outrage and prompted swift action from the Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh.
### **Commissioner Condemns Act, Disbands Tactical Squad**
Reacting to the incident, CP Jimoh condemned the officers’ behaviour, describing it as “unacceptable and unprofessional.” He stated that such conduct would not be tolerated under his leadership.
“I have ordered the immediate detention of the officers involved and directed a thorough investigation. The actions of these policemen do not represent what the Nigeria Police Force stands for,” he said.
In addition to their arrest, the Tactical Squad to which the officers belonged has been disbanded. The Commissioner announced that a new squad would be formed, made up of officers trained to maintain professionalism and uphold international best practices in policing.
### **Orderly Room Trial to Follow**
The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the development. He said preliminary investigations had justified the detention of the officers.
“The Commissioner of Police has ordered that the affected officers face an orderly room trial, which will follow established disciplinary procedures,” Hundeyin stated.
He added that the trial would be handled swiftly and transparently, stressing that justice would be served.
“The Force is committed to rebuilding public trust and will not hesitate to punish any personnel found guilty of misconduct,” he said.
### **Public Reaction and Background**
The video of the assault sparked reactions from many Nigerians online, with calls for greater accountability within the police. Several users tagged the police command’s social media handles, demanding immediate action.
Many citizens applauded CP Jimoh’s quick response and his decision to disband the Tactical Squad, which had previously faced public complaints.
This incident comes amid ongoing efforts to reform the Nigeria Police Force and improve the relationship between officers and the communities they serve. Police misconduct, particularly during stop-and-search operations, has been a long-standing issue in Lagos and other parts of the country.
The disbandment of the Tactical Squad and the planned trial of the officers are seen by many as steps in the right direction. However, civil society groups have called for deeper reforms, better training, and the installation of body cameras on officers to ensure greater accountability during police operations.
