Lagos Taskforce arrests dismissed officer over alleged impersonation, extortion

…Agency says suspect was dismissed over alleged misconduct, warns against impersonating its personnel

The Lagos State Taskforce has arrested a dismissed personnel of the agency, identified as Yahaya Salami, popularly known as Adams, over alleged impersonation and extortion.

Salami was reportedly apprehended by Taskforce operatives at Oshodi Bus Stop, Lagos, on Saturday after he allegedly resisted efforts by the agency to question him over claims that he had continued to parade himself as a serving officer despite his dismissal.

According to the Taskforce, Salami, a former paramilitary operative attached to the agency, was dismissed several months ago over alleged gross misconduct, including theft, use of a fake identity card, extortion of motorists and traders, indiscipline and other acts allegedly contrary to the agency’s regulations.

The agency said that despite his dismissal, Salami allegedly continued to present himself as a serving Taskforce official.

His arrest has attracted public attention following the circulation of a video on social media showing him being apprehended by Taskforce operatives in Oshodi.

The agency said previous attempts to track down the suspect had proved unsuccessful before he was accosted by its operatives on Saturday.

According to the Taskforce, Salami was invited for questioning but allegedly declined the invitation and resisted arrest. The agency said its officers subsequently brought the situation under control through what it described as effective tactical coordination and professionalism, with minimal force.

The Chairman of the Lagos State Taskforce, CSP Adetayo Akerele, said the man seen in the viral video was a former operative who no longer had any affiliation with the agency.

Akerele said the alleged continued impersonation of Taskforce personnel was a serious concern because it could mislead members of the public and undermine confidence in legitimate law enforcement activities.

He said the arrest demonstrated the agency’s resolve to prevent dismissed personnel and other unauthorised individuals from exploiting its name, identity and authority for unlawful purposes.

The chairman also said the Taskforce’s ongoing sensitisation and advocacy programmes across the 57 Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas were aimed at educating residents on compliance with existing laws, promoting orderliness and enhancing public safety.

He added that the initiatives included sustained public enlightenment for commercial motorcycle operators and other road users on restricted routes, driving against traffic and other traffic regulations across the state.

The suspect is expected to be charged before a court of competent jurisdiction on Monday, subject to the completion of necessary procedures, the agency said.

Akerele warned individuals and criminal elements attempting to tarnish the image of the Taskforce through impersonation or other unlawful activities to desist or face the consequences of the law.

He stressed that the agency would not tolerate attempts by dismissed personnel or unauthorised individuals to falsely present themselves as serving officers or engage in activities capable of bringing the institution into disrepute.

The chairman urged members of the public to remain vigilant, verify the identities of individuals claiming to be Taskforce officials and report suspicious activities through appropriate channels.

He also appealed to members of the Fourth Estate to uphold responsible journalism by investigating allegations, verifying facts and obtaining the perspectives of relevant parties before publication.

Akerele said balanced and factual reporting was essential to preventing misinformation, ensuring fairness and maintaining public confidence.

The Lagos State Taskforce, he added, remained committed to upholding the law, protecting residents and ensuring that its name and authority were not abused by individuals acting outside their lawful mandate.