The Lagos State Taskforce has arrested a dismissed former operative, identified as Yahaya Salami, popularly known as Adams, over alleged impersonation after a video showing his forceful apprehension by agency operatives in Oshodi went viral on social media.

The arrest was carried out at Oshodi Bus Stop, Lagos, on Sunday, following previous unsuccessful attempts to track him down, according to a statement by the agency’s Director of Public Affairs, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem.

The Taskforce alleged that Salami, a former paramilitary operative attached to the agency, had been dismissed several months ago over alleged gross misconduct, including theft, use of a fake identity card, extortion of motorists and traders, and indiscipline.

Despite his dismissal, the agency claimed that he continued to present himself as a serving Taskforce official.

According to the statement, the suspect was invited for questioning when operatives accosted him but allegedly rejected the invitation and resisted arrest.

The agency said its officers eventually brought the situation under control through what it described as effective tactical coordination and professionalism, using minimal force to apprehend him.

The Chairman of the Lagos State Taskforce, CSP Adetayo Akerele, clarified that the individual seen in the viral video was no longer affiliated with the agency.

“The individual seen in the viral video is a former operative who no longer has any affiliation with the Lagos State Taskforce,” Akerele said.

He described the alleged impersonation as a serious concern, warning that such conduct could mislead members of the public and undermine confidence in legitimate law enforcement activities.

Akerele said the arrest demonstrated the agency’s determination to prevent dismissed personnel and other unauthorised individuals from exploiting its name, identity and authority for unlawful purposes.

The chairman also warned individuals attempting to tarnish the agency’s image through impersonation or other unlawful activities to desist or face legal consequences.

He stressed that the Taskforce would not tolerate attempts by dismissed personnel or unauthorised individuals to falsely present themselves as serving officers or engage in activities capable of bringing the institution into disrepute.

The agency said the suspect was expected to be charged before a court of competent jurisdiction on Monday, subject to the completion of necessary procedures.

Akerele urged members of the public to remain vigilant, verify the identities of individuals claiming to be Taskforce officials and report suspicious activities through appropriate channels.

He said the agency’s sensitisation and advocacy programmes across Lagos State’s 57 local government areas and local council development areas were aimed at promoting compliance with existing laws, public order and safety.

The programmes also include public enlightenment for commercial motorcycle operators and other road users on restricted routes and traffic violations, including driving against traffic, popularly known as one-way.

The chairman further appealed to journalists to uphold responsible reporting by investigating allegations, verifying facts and obtaining responses from all relevant parties before publication.

He said balanced and factual reporting was essential to ensuring fairness, preventing misinformation and maintaining public confidence.

The Lagos State Taskforce reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing the law, protecting residents and preventing individuals from abusing the agency’s name and authority.

The statement ended with the agency’s public safety slogan: “See Something, Say Something.”

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