The Lagos State Police Command has disbanded one of its tactical squads and detained its officers after a viral video showed them assaulting a motorist during a stop-and-search operation on August 15, 2025, in Lagos, reportedly over suspicions that his glasses contained a hidden camera.
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) condemned the officers’ unprofessional conduct in a statement posted on its official X handle on August 22, 2025, with Lagos Police Commissioner Olohundare Jimoh ordering an immediate orderly room trial for the team, as confirmed by spokesperson Benjamin.
The video, shared by X user @General_Somto captured officers slapping the motorist and attempting to forcibly remove his glasses, prompting public outrage. Hundeyin noted that Jimoh met with the complainant @Tife_badass to address the incident, emphasizing that the officers’ actions do not reflect NPF standards.
The disbanded squad has been replaced with a new unit tasked with adhering to international policing best practices, with a zero-tolerance policy for corruption and human rights violations, according to Hundeyin’s statement. The NPF described the incident as isolated, reaffirming its commitment to disciplining errant officers while protecting citizens’ rights under the 1999 Constitution.
The motorist protested in the footage, saying, “Why are you hitting me? Can’t I wear my glasses again?” while an officer retorted, “Why do you put us on camera? You are camera police.”
The NPF’s actions signal an effort to restore public trust amid ongoing criticism of tactical squads, with calls for broader reforms growing louder on social media platforms, where users cite systemic issues in police conduct. The officers face disciplinary action, with potential penalties under the Police Act, as the NPF aims to deter future violations through transparent justice.
