A 22-year-old man has landed in police custody after allegedly using a stolen police uniform to pose as an officer in Lagos.
According to the Lagos State Police Command, the suspect, identified as Onipede Ojo, was arrested after he was found wearing a police camouflage uniform believed to have been stolen from a serving officer.
Police said the suspect allegedly stole a bag belonging to an officer. The bag reportedly contained a camouflage uniform, a warrant card, a mobile phone, an ATM card and other personal belongings.
Investigators disclosed that the stolen uniform carried the name tag of Inspector Jimoh Weheed. Furthermore, the suspect allegedly wore the uniform while attempting to present himself as a genuine officer.
A video that later surfaced online showed Ojo explaining how he came into possession of the outfit. According to him, the uniform was found along Maryland Road in Lagos.
However, residents reportedly became suspicious after noticing that his behavior did not match that of a trained police officer. As a result, questions were asked about his identity and purpose.
Their concerns continued to grow as his responses allegedly failed to convince those around him. Therefore, members of the public decided to take further action.
The suspect was eventually detained and handed over to the police for investigation. Meanwhile, officers began examining the circumstances surrounding the stolen items and the alleged impersonation.
Police authorities confirmed that Ojo remains in custody. In addition, they stated that he would be charged in court once investigations are completed.
While commending residents for their alertness, the Lagos State Police Command issued an important warning. The command strongly condemned jungle justice and any form of extrajudicial punishment.
Officials emphasized that suspects should always be handed over to law enforcement agencies.
The command noted that Lagos laws do not permit individuals to punish suspects outside the justice system. Therefore, citizens were urged to remain calm and cooperate with authorities when suspicious activities are observed.
