The Lagos State Task Force has dismissed two personnel, Fatai Yusuf (42) and Hammed Garuba (38), for stealing mobile phones during a recent raid. The task force’s spokesperson, Mr. Abdulraheem Gbadeyan, announced the dismissals in a statement issued on Friday.
The officers were caught on CCTV stealing phones during an operation at a hotel in Gowon Estate, identified as a hub for drug users and traffickers. The raid, which led to multiple arrests, was undermined by their actions, Gbadeyan stated.
“Both individuals, serving as paramilitary officers within the agency, were subjected to a meticulous investigation by the agency’s disciplinary committee. Upon confirmation of their guilt, they were summarily dismissed from service and will face immediate prosecution for theft,” he said.
The chairman of the agency, CSP Adetayo Akerele, condemned the officers’ misconduct, emphasizing the task force’s commitment to integrity and accountability.
“Akerele has issued a stern admonition to all personnel, emphasizing that any breach of ethical conduct would attract severe consequences,” Gbadeyan noted.
He reiterated that the task force operates on the principles of discipline, equity, and justice, and any action undermining the agency’s credibility or public trust would be addressed decisively.
In a related development, Gbadeyan revealed that those apprehended during the raid have been charged in court.
53 drug peddlers and users arrested in earlier operations were remanded at the Badagry Correctional Centre.
43 additional suspects were apprehended this week during another raid targeting drug hotspots and illegal structures in Gowon Estate, Ipaja, Lagos.
The operation also led to the demolition of identified drug hideouts and shanties to deter criminal activities in the area.
The task force’s actions align with the Lagos State THEMES Plus agenda, focusing on law enforcement and public safety.
“These actions highlight the task force’s uncompromising stance on unethical conduct and its dedication to maintaining law and order,” Gbadeyan stated.
The dismissed officers now face prosecution, while the task force continues its mission to eradicate drug-related crimes and uphold public trust.
