Coronavirus lock-down: Policemen involved in unprofessional conduct in viral video arrested

Chioma Joseph

The Lagos State Police Command, has arrested some officers of the Lagos State Taskforce, alleged to have been caught in a viral video, destroying crates of alcoholic beverages and other wares belonging to traders that had flouted the state governmnet’s directive.

Their arrest followed a directive from the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Mohammed Adamu, who ordered the State Commissioner of Police, CP Hakeem Odumosu, to identify and bring the said officers to book.

According to a statement signed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Elkana Bala, the policemen have been subjected to Orderly Room Trail at the Provost Department of the Command.

While the command condemned the action of the policemen, it called on other enforcement officers to be professional and respect the rights of citizen as they discharge their duties.

The statement says: “ The Commissioner of Police Lagos State Command, CP Hakeem Odumosu, is saddened with the apparent unprofessional conduct exhibited by some police officers identified in a trending video and has ordered for their immediate arrest and investigation.

“ They are currently subjected to internal disciplinary proceedings known as Orderly Room Trial at the Provost Department, State Command Headquarters, Ikeja, to serve as deterrent to others. Their conduct is totally condemned as it fell short of our professional standards and rules of engagement.

“ Police officers involved in the enforcement of restriction orders across the state are further warned to exercise their discretionary powers with utmost professionalism, compassion and respect for the rights of the citizens. The Commissioner of Police reaffirm his stance on zero tolerance for impunity by Police Officers.”

The following phone numbers were furtherr given for complaints against Police actions in the state: 09090003792, 09010512348, 09010512350