Video: Police disband tactical unit for assaulting driver in viral clip

Abdullateef Fowewe

The Lagos State Police Command has disbanded one of its tactical units following public outrage over a video that depicted its officers assaulting a driver.

Video link: https://x.com/DailyEconews/status/1959214147658473881?t=SdYjwX4c1_J1hLDRZPlceQ&s=19

The video, which went viral on X, showcased the officers’ inappropriate behaviour during a stop-and-search procedure.

Posted by a user named Somto with the handle #General_Somto, the footage captured a tense encounter.

Officers were shown trying to forcibly take the driver’s glasses, suspecting they contained a hidden camera. The situation escalated, resulting in one officer hitting the man.

In a prompt reaction, the command’s spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed that the Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, has initiated disciplinary measures against the involved officers.

Hundeyin stated on X, “Following a thorough preliminary investigation, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has ordered the immediate detention of the entire team. The officers will face an orderly room trial in line with established disciplinary procedures to ensure justice is served swiftly and transparently.

“In addition, the entire Tactical Squad implicated in this matter has been dissolved with immediate effect. A new Tactical Squad has been constituted, comprising officers who will adhere strictly to international best practices in policing. This new unit will operate with zero tolerance for corruption, while upholding the highest standards of respect for human rights and human dignity.

“The Lagos State Police Command remains committed to serving and protecting the public with integrity and fairness. We urge all residents to continue cooperating with law enforcement agencies and to report any misconduct through our established channels.”