Emmanuel Thomas, Lagos
August 7, 2015 – Three policemen have been detained by the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) in Lagos State for reckless shooting, attempted murder and assault on LASTMA officials on duty at different parts of the state.
We gathered that the over-zealousness policemen who claimed to be a superior officer prevailed on officials of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) to let go of vehicle apprehended for violating traffic laws.
The impasse deteriorated to such an extent that the policemen opened fire on the arm-less LASTMA men.
One of the detained officers was said to be in hot pursuit of a suspected felon at Iyana-Iba bus stop and fired at the tyres in attempt to demobilize the car.
The bullet unfortunately missed the target and brushed through the arms of a passerby, which led to mob action against the policeman.
Miscreants, we gathered attempted to take advantage of the situation to foment trouble but trouble was eventually averted when police authority stepped in.
The Policeman has since been arrested and detained, pending the commencement of disciplinary procedures against him, while the injured citizen who was rushed to the hospital by the police is receiving treatment.
Meanwhile, the Command Commissioner of Police, CP Fatai Owoseni has warned policemen in the command to uphold the highest standards of their professional calling.
He stated further that the command will zealously work to uphold the force leadership position on zero tolerance for indiscipline, abuse of Human Rights and incivility to members of the public, stressing that he will not hesitate to bring erring officers to book.
