LASTMA nabs suspect for impersonation

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has arrested a 47-year-old man for allegedly impersonating one of its officials and extorting N7,800 from a motorist.

In a statement on Wednesday, the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, said the suspect was apprehended on Tuesday near Itire Junction in Lagos.

According to Bakare-Oki, preliminary investigations showed that the suspect, posing as a LASTMA operative, stopped a motorist, Mr Stephen Ayano, and demanded N80,000 for allegedly making an unlawful turn.

“The suspect told his victim that the amount is the penalty for the traffic violation. Unable to meet the outrageous demand, the victim pleaded and eventually parted with the only cash (N7,800) in his possession and handed it to the fake officer,” Bakare-Oki said.

He added that the victim later became suspicious and contacted LASTMA through its toll-free line to confirm the officer’s identity. The agency’s Surveillance and Intelligence Unit was immediately mobilised to the area, leading to the suspect’s arrest after a brief attempt to flee.

During interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to being part of a three-man syndicate that disguises as LASTMA personnel to extort motorists around Itire and nearby areas, making up to N65,000 daily from their illegal activities.

Bakare-Oki praised the motorist for promptly reporting the incident, describing it as an act of civic responsibility. He also reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to integrity, professionalism, and transparency in its operations.

He reminded the public that genuine LASTMA officials can be identified by their uniforms, name tags, and service identification numbers, and warned against dealing with impostors.

“I can assure the public that the suspect will be arraigned before a Mobile Court to serve as a deterrent to others who impersonate LASTMA officials to extort innocent citizens,” he said.

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