The Lagos State Taskforce has apprehended a former operative, Yahaya Salami, also known as Adams, over allegations of impersonation and extortion, following the emergence of a viral video showing his arrest in Oshodi.
The suspect was arrested at Oshodi Bus Stop on Sunday, October 18, after previous attempts by the agency to track him down reportedly proved unsuccessful.
In a statement issued by its Director of Public Affairs, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, the Taskforce disclosed that Salami had been dismissed from service several months ago over alleged misconduct, including theft, possession of a fake identity card, extortion of motorists and traders, and indiscipline.
The agency alleged that the former operative continued to identify himself as a serving official despite his dismissal, a development it said could expose unsuspecting residents to exploitation and undermine the credibility of legitimate law enforcement operations.
According to the statement, operatives approached Salami for questioning when they encountered him but he allegedly rejected the invitation and resisted arrest. The officers eventually subdued and apprehended him through what the agency described as coordinated and professional action involving minimal force.
Reacting to the incident, the Chairman of the Lagos State Taskforce, CSP Adetayo Akerele, stressed that Salami was no longer a member of the agency and had no authority to act on its behalf.
Akerele said the arrest formed part of efforts to prevent dismissed officers and other unauthorised individuals from using the agency's identity to engage in unlawful activities.
He warned that impersonating law enforcement personnel was unacceptable, noting that such actions could mislead members of the public and damage the reputation of the institution.
The Taskforce chairman also reaffirmed the agency's commitment to enforcing traffic and environmental regulations across Lagos State, adding that its sensitisation campaigns were ongoing across the state's 57 local government areas and local council development areas.
The campaigns, he explained, were designed to educate residents and road users on compliance with existing laws, including restrictions affecting commercial motorcycle operators and the prohibition of driving against traffic on designated roads, including the coastal road.
The agency disclosed that the suspect was expected to appear before a court of competent jurisdiction on Monday, October 19, subject to the completion of the necessary procedures.
Akerele urged members of the public to remain vigilant, verify the identities of individuals presenting themselves as Taskforce officials and report suspicious conduct through appropriate channels.
He further called on journalists to uphold professional standards by verifying information, investigating allegations and seeking responses from relevant parties before publishing reports.
The Lagos State Taskforce reiterated that it would not tolerate the unauthorised use of its name or authority, assuring residents of its continued commitment to public safety and the enforcement of the law.
The agency urged residents to support its efforts by reporting suspicious activities, stressing its message: “See Something, Say Something.”
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