A police sergeant, Johnson Okediji, has died after being allegedly knocked down and run over by a motorist during a stop-and-search operation in the Egbeda area of Lagos State. The incident occurred along Olugbede Street, Egbeda, when officers on routine duty signalled a Lexus ES 350 with registration number FKJ 223 KX to stop. The driver, 20-year-old Olumide Olusola, initially complied but suddenly accelerated as Sergeant Okediji approached the vehicle.
According to the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Tijani Fatai, the suspect knocked down the officer and dragged him beneath the vehicle for several metres despite efforts by fellow officers and passers-by to stop him. The commissioner disclosed the incident while briefing journalists on the command’s activities for September. He added that the injured officer was rushed to a nearby hospital and later referred to the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, LASUTH.
Sergeant Okediji sustained multiple fractures and severe head injuries during the incident and was pronounced dead on arrival at LASUTH. The remains of the deceased officer have been deposited at the Mainland Hospital Mortuary for preservation and autopsy. The vehicle involved has been recovered by the police. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of police officers during routine operations.
The suspect, Olumide Olusola, was chased and arrested by the police. During a parade of suspects, Olusola denied intentionally causing the officer’s death, attributing the incident to a mechanical fault. He claimed that his vehicle experienced brake failure, leading to the accident. The police have taken Olusola into custody for further investigation.
CP Tijani Fatai expressed condolences to the family of the deceased officer, describing him as a dedicated and hardworking member of the force. The commissioner vowed to ensure that justice is served in the matter. The police command is investigating the incident to determine the circumstances surrounding the accident.
The incident has sparked outrage in the community, with many calling for improved safety measures for police officers during operations. The police command has assured the public that it will take necessary steps to prevent similar incidents in the future. The command has also urged motorists to exercise caution and comply with police instructions during stop-and-search operations.
The Lagos State Police Command has begun an investigation into the incident, with the Commissioner of Police promising a thorough probe. The command will review the circumstances surrounding the incident to prevent similar occurrences. The police will also provide support to the family of the deceased officer.
Key points
- A police sergeant was killed during a stop-and-search operation in Lagos State.
- The suspect claimed the incident was due to mechanical fault.
- The police command has begun an investigation into the incident.
