October 25, 2024
Adesakin Adefemi
In a bold operation, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has apprehended a 45-year-old man, Adewunmi Taiwo, for impersonating a LASTMA officer and extorting money from motorists.
Taiwo, a married man with three children, used a white Hiace Coaster Bus with license plate KJA 724 YJ to target commercial and private drivers along high-traffic routes, including Ikorodu Road and the Oshodi to Mile 2 expressway.
A search of his vehicle revealed an official LASTMA uniform, complete with a branded raincoat, confirming his deceitful intentions. Taiwo confessed to generating between N15,000 and N25,000 daily from these unauthorized activities.
LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, issued a stern warning to individuals exploiting the agency’s identity for illicit gains. “Any attempt to tarnish LASTMA’s reputation will be met with the full force of the law,” he stated.
The suspect’s arrest serves as a reminder of LASTMA’s commitment to protecting the public from fraudulent activities. The agency urges anyone with information on similar incidents to come forward.
In another incident, a fake LASTMA officer was jailed by a mobile court in Lagos for impersonation and extortion.
These cases highlight the need for vigilance and cooperation between authorities and the public to combat crime.
The arrested individual will face charges for his actions.
LASTMA remains dedicated to maintaining law and order on Lagos roads.
