The Lagos State Police Command has initiated a manhunt for commercial motorcyclists, commonly known as ‘Okada riders,’ following the alleged attack and killing of an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) during a traffic enforcement operation in the Agege area of Lagos.
INCIDENT DETAILS
The incident occurred early Saturday morning at the WEMCO Junction near Mobil Road. Eyewitnesses reported that the police officer was leading a team to respond to a distress call about a fatal accident involving an Okada rider and a trailer when they were confronted by a group of riders.
In the ensuing chaos, the police officer and his team were reportedly attacked by the Okada riders, who expressed their dissatisfaction with the police’s handling of the situation. The ASP was targeted during the melee, and despite attempts by others to flee, he was overpowered by the attackers.
POLICE RESPONSE
In the wake of the incident, approximately five suspects were arrested, and efforts to locate additional individuals involved in the attack have been intensified.
Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the situation, describing the attack as “needless and uncalled for.” He stated that the police had received a distress call at around 1:40 a.m. regarding the accident involving the Okada rider and the trailer, which led to the police’s presence in the area.
COMMUNITY IMPACT
The violent altercation has raised concerns about the safety of law enforcement officers and the ongoing tensions between police and commercial motorcyclists in the city. The police are urging the public to assist in identifying and apprehending those responsible for the attack.