The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has apprehended two of its Special Traffic Mayors (STMs) for illegally apprehending a logistic motorcyclist and impersonation.

Bolaji Oreagba, LASTMA general manager, confirmed the development in a statement on Friday in Lagos.

Mr Oreagba said the officers, Ibrahim Abu and Olamide Oshin, were arrested by a patrol team from LASTMA Headquarters on Wednesday, August 17.

He explained that the patrol team arrested them at the Sheraton Hotel bus stop on Mobolaji Bank-Anthony Way for their illegal acts.

Mr Oreagba said there had been incidences of impersonation of LASTMA personnel by some unscrupulous members of the public in times past.

“Upon investigations, Ibrahim Jubril Abu, a genuine LASTMA STM, obtained another mayor’s reflective jacket number and printed a fake identity card for Olamide Oshin in order to perpetuate fraudulent acts.

“Abu, thereby, whipped up public sentiments against lawful officers on traffic management duties.

“The two culprits, who have been handed over to the police at Area F, are cooling their heels in police custody,” he said.

The LASTMA boss added that not too long ago, the agency noted a fake online publication soliciting membership and training as a Special Traffic Mayor for a fee.

He said that the agency promptly responded and debunked the publication via a press statement and on the electronic media.

Mr Oreagba also promised that the culprits would be prosecuted to deter others with similar intentions.

He noted that, regrettably, some logistics motorcycle riders were already gathering at the spot of the incident to launch an attack on LASTMA officials.

Mr Oreagba added that the agency advocated voluntary compliance to ensure better and sustainable law and order on Lagos roads. 

(NAN)