By Juliana Francis
The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Fatai Tijani, has lamented the killing of a police sergeant during a stop-and-search operation, while highlighting the risks officers face daily in the line of duty.
Tijani, who spoke at a press briefing in Lagos, said the Lagos State Police Command remained committed to protecting lives and property through proactive policing, intelligence-led operations, strategic crime prevention initiatives and swift responses to security threats.
According to him, the command recorded several operational successes in September, resulting in the arrest of 32 suspects for offences including armed robbery, cultism and unlawful possession of firearms.
He said the command also recovered ₦2.5 million in cash, firearms, ammunition, stolen vehicles, charms and other exhibits during various operations across the state.
The Commissioner, however, expressed concern over the death of Sergeant Thompson on September 26, describing the incident as a tragic reminder of the dangers confronting police officers while carrying out their duties.
He said the sergeant was killed during a stop-and-search operation along Kondukwile Street, Egbeda.
According to Tijani, officers on duty had signalled the driver of a Lexus ES 350 to stop, and the driver initially complied before suddenly speeding off.
“Sergeant Thompson attempted to stop him but was knocked down and dragged underneath the vehicle for several metres. He sustained multiple fractures and serious head injuries.
“He was rushed to LASUTH but was pronounced dead on arrival. The driver was arrested, and the vehicle was recovered,” the Commissioner said.
Tijani stressed that the incident underscored the dangers police officers face during routine operations.
“This incident highlights the risks policemen encounter during stop-and-search operations. Unfortunately, officers are often killed in such circumstances, yet the public does not always appreciate their sacrifices.
“We appeal to members of the public to respect officers performing their lawful duties,” he said.
On the enforcement of vehicle registration and plate-number regulations, the Commissioner warned motorists against driving without proper plate numbers or using them in an unauthorised manner.
“It is unlawful to drive without a plate number, to cover your plate number, or to use a dealer’s plate number without authorisation.
“Despite repeated warnings, many people continue these practices. The command will continue to clamp down on offenders, and members of the public should not complain when arrests are made,” he said.
Tijani also gave an update on recent armed robbery operations, including the arrest of suspects along Ogoba Road and the apprehension of 29-year-old Ezekiel Sonny Ruby, who was allegedly linked to a robbery incident in Abule Egba.
He said other operations involved cases of conspiracy and theft, during which ₦2.5 million was recovered, as well as arrests linked to cultism at Goyimu Beach Yard.
The Commissioner reaffirmed the command’s commitment to visibility policing and intelligence-led operations across Lagos.
“The Lagos State Police Command remains dedicated to visibility policing and intelligence-led operations. We will continue to arrest criminals, recover exhibits and ensure public safety across the state,” Tijani said.
