The Lagos Police Command has arrested a 22-year-old suspected impostor for allegedly stealing a police uniform and using it to pose as a police officer.
The command disclosed this in a statement posted on its official X handle on Tuesday, saying the suspect allegedly stole a police officer’s bag containing a camouflage uniform, warrant card, mobile phone, ATM card and other personal belongings.
According to the statement, the suspect later wore the stolen camouflage uniform in an attempt to impersonate a police officer.
It added that vigilant residents became suspicious after observing that his behaviour and mannerisms were inconsistent with those of a genuine police officer.
The statement read, “The suspect subsequently wore the stolen camouflage uniform in an attempt to impersonate a police officer.
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“However, vigilant passersby became suspicious after noticing that his behaviour and mannerisms were inconsistent with those of a genuine officer.
“The residents questioned him and discovered that he was an impostor and handed him to the Police for further investigation.”
The command said the suspect is currently in police custody, adding that investigations are ongoing and he will be charged to court upon conclusion of the investigation.
It commended the vigilance and civic responsibility of the residents, saying their actions demonstrated the effectiveness of its “See Something, Say Something” campaign and underscored the importance of public participation in maintaining security.
The police, however, condemned all forms of jungle justice, stressing that the laws of Lagos State do not permit individuals to take the law into their own hands, regardless of the alleged offence committed by a suspect.
The command urged members of the public to hand over suspected offenders to the police or other law enforcement agencies for proper investigation and prosecution in accordance with the law.
It also appreciated Lagos residents for their continued support and encouraged them to remain vigilant by promptly reporting suspicious persons, movements and activities while allowing the law to take its course.