The Lagos State Taskforce has arrested a dismissed former operative, Yahaya Salami, popularly known as Adams, over alleged impersonation and extortion, following the circulation of a viral video showing his apprehension by operatives in Oshodi.
The arrest was carried out at Oshodi Bus Stop on Sunday, October 18, after previous efforts to locate the suspect reportedly proved unsuccessful.
According to a statement issued by the Director of Public Affairs of the Lagos State Taskforce, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, Salami was dismissed from the agency several months ago over alleged gross misconduct, including theft, the use of a fake identity card, extortion of motorists and traders, and acts of indiscipline.
Despite his dismissal, the agency alleged that he continued to present himself as a serving Taskforce official, raising concerns about the potential misuse of its identity and authority to deceive members of the public.
The statement explained that operatives invited the suspect for questioning when they encountered him but that he allegedly declined the invitation and resisted arrest. The officers subsequently apprehended him following what the agency described as effective tactical coordination and professional conduct, with minimal force.
The Chairman of the Lagos State Taskforce, CSP Adetayo Akerele, clarified that the individual seen in the viral video was a former operative who no longer had any affiliation with the agency.
Akerele said the alleged impersonation was a serious concern, noting that such conduct could mislead residents, undermine public confidence in law enforcement and bring the agency into disrepute.
He maintained that the arrest demonstrated the Taskforce’s determination to prevent dismissed personnel and unauthorised individuals from exploiting its name, identity and authority for unlawful purposes.
The agency also highlighted its ongoing sensitisation and advocacy programmes across Lagos State’s 57 local government areas and local council development areas, aimed at promoting compliance with existing laws, public order and safety.
The programmes also include public enlightenment campaigns targeting commercial motorcycle operators and other road users on traffic regulations, restricted routes and the dangers of driving against traffic, popularly known as one-way driving, including along the coastal road and other parts of the state.
The suspect is expected to be charged before a court of competent jurisdiction on Monday, October 19, subject to the completion of the necessary procedures.
Akerele warned dismissed personnel and other individuals against impersonating serving officers or engaging in activities capable of damaging the agency’s reputation, stressing that anyone found culpable would face the consequences of the law.
He urged residents to remain vigilant, verify the identities of individuals claiming to be Taskforce officials and report suspicious activities through the appropriate channels.
The chairman also called on members of the media to uphold responsible journalism by verifying allegations, investigating claims and seeking perspectives from relevant parties before publication.
He stressed that balanced and factual reporting was essential to ensuring fairness, preventing misinformation and sustaining public confidence.
The Lagos State Taskforce reiterated its commitment to enforcing the law, protecting residents and preventing the unauthorised use of its name and authority.
The agency concluded with its public safety message: “See Something, Say Something.”
