Lagos Task Force Arrests Dismissed Operative Over Alleged Impersonation
Oluwatobi Adu 
LAGOS, Nigeria – The Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Enforcement Unit has arrested a dismissed operative accused of impersonating a serving official and allegedly extorting money from motorists and traders.
The agency confirmed the arrest on Sunday after a video showing the suspect’s apprehension circulated online. The suspect was reportedly arrested at Oshodi bus stop after allegedly resisting officers who approached him for questioning.
In a statement issued through its spokesperson, Abdulraheem Gbadeyan, the task force said its chairman, CSP Adetayo Akerele, had confirmed that the suspect was dismissed months earlier over repeated misconduct.
The alleged offences included theft, the use of a fake identity card and demands for money from members of the public. “The suspect continued to pose as a serving task force official after his dismissal,” Akerele said.
He added that officers eventually apprehended the suspect through coordinated tactics intended to avoid unnecessary force. Akerele warned that dismissed personnel and other individuals impersonating task force officers could undermine public confidence in legitimate enforcement operations.
He said the agency would not tolerate attempts by individuals to exploit its name or authority for personal gain. The suspect is expected to appear in court on Monday after the conclusion of investigations, according to the agency.
The task force also urged residents to verify the identities of individuals claiming to represent it and report suspicious activities through official channels.
The arrest comes amid concerns about individuals allegedly exploiting the identities of enforcement officers to intimidate members of the public or solicit payments.
The agency did not disclose the suspect’s identity or provide further details about the specific incidents in which he allegedly demanded money. The allegations remain subject to investigation and judicial proceedings.
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Mirian Gom 
