The Lagos State Police Command has moved swiftly to detain a team of officers following a botched tactical operation in the AIT area of Alagbado that left two innocent passersby dead.
The incident, which occurred late Friday, has sent shockwaves through the border community between Lagos and Ogun States, reigniting the heated debate over the use of lethal force during raids on suspected internet fraudsters, commonly referred to as “Yahoo boys.”
The Fatal Pursuit
According to eyewitness accounts, the officers—reportedly part of a tactical unit—were in high-speed pursuit of a vehicle suspected to be carrying “Yahoo boys” along the AIT Road. In an attempt to stop the fleeing vehicle, shots were fired.
Tragically, the bullets missed the intended target and struck two civilians: a roadside trader and a young man waiting for a commercial motorcycle. Both victims reportedly died at the scene before medical help could arrive.
Police Command Responds
In a statement released early Saturday, the Command’s spokesperson, Abimbola Adebisi, confirmed that the officers involved have been disarmed and taken into custody at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti.
“The Command deeply regrets the loss of lives in the Alagbado area. The Commissioner of Police has ordered a full-scale investigation into the circumstances of the discharge of firearms. We want to assure the public that Lagos has zero tolerance for professional misconduct. The officers involved are currently undergoing an orderly room trial,” Adebisi stated.
Community on Edge
Following the shooting, a spontaneous protest broke out in the AIT area as angry youths attempted to block the road. However, a heavy deployment of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) and the Area Command has since restored a fragile peace.
Local community leaders are now calling for more than just arrests. “Every month we hear of ‘accidental discharge’ during these raids. We want to see these officers charged in a regular court of law, not just a police trial,” said a resident who identified himself as Baba Segun.
Fact Box: Police Conduct Guidelines
| Policy | Requirement |
| Force Order 237 | Firearms should only be used as a last resort in extreme danger. |
| Crowd Control | Use of live ammunition is strictly prohibited in densely populated areas. |
| Accountability | Officers must file a report for every round of ammunition discharged. |
