The Lagos State Police Command has taken decisive action against misconduct within its ranks by dissolving one of its tactical squads after a disturbing video surfaced online showing officers assaulting a motorist during a routine stop-and-search exercise.
The viral footage, which has sparked widespread public outrage, captured the moment the motorist was stopped by operatives who attempted to forcibly remove his glasses, allegedly suspecting that the eyewear contained a hidden video-recording device.
The situation quickly escalated when one of the officers was seen striking the individual, an act that drew strong condemnation from both the public and the police authorities.
Reacting to the incident on Friday, the spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed that a preliminary investigation had been conducted.
He disclosed that the Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, immediately ordered the detention of all officers involved.
According to him, the men will face an orderly room trial in accordance with police disciplinary procedures to guarantee a fair and transparent process.
Hundeyin further revealed that the entire Tactical Squad implicated in the incident has been disbanded with immediate effect.
A fresh tactical team has now been constituted, comprising carefully selected officers who, he assured, will strictly adhere to international standards of policing.
He emphasized that the newly formed squad would operate with zero tolerance for corruption and with a firm commitment to respect for human rights and dignity.
The Nigeria Police Force Headquarters also reacted swiftly, issuing a statement on its official X handle to condemn the actions of the erring officers.
The Force described the behavior captured in the viral clip as “highly unprofessional and unacceptable,” stressing that such misconduct tarnishes the image of the entire police institution.
“The officers involved have been identified as personnel attached to the Lagos State Police Command,” the statement read.
“The Commissioner of Police in charge of the command has already been contacted and has taken prompt measures to ensure the officers face appropriate disciplinary actions.
“He has also directed the restructuring of the squad in question.”
Both the State Command and the Force Headquarters assured Nigerians that accountability will be enforced, adding that the measures taken are part of ongoing efforts to restore public trust in the police and promote professional policing culture across the country.