Man arrested for impersonating LASTMA official, illegally towing vehicle in Lagos
By Sodiq Adelakun
A man named Adejumo has been apprehended for allegedly impersonating a Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) official and towing a vehicle in Lagos.
The incident was captured in a video that has been circulating on social media. The suspect was seen driving a van with a LASTMA sticker and towing a black Acura MDX in the Somolu area of Lagos early on Monday.
The owner of the towed vehicle, an unidentified woman, expressed her shock and frustration, stating that her car had been stolen using a LASTMA van.
She explained that the vehicle had been obstructed by a pole, and when residents became suspicious and raised the alarm, the driver of the van fled the scene.
The woman expressed gratitude that people had shouted and scared off the culprits, preventing further harm.
She emphasised the irony of a government towing van being used for criminal activities and praised the intervention of the residents.
The suspect was subsequently arrested for his alleged impersonation and theft.
The towed vehicle was seen stuck behind the pole while the towing van was ahead of it.
Reacting in a statement Monday night, LASTMA’s Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, Adebayo Taofiq, said the driver of the van had been arrested.
Adebayo said, “The driver of the towing vehicle was not an official of LASTMA. It is important to inform the general public, particularly the motoring public that the driver, Adejumo, has been apprehended and is currently at Pedro Police Station for further investigation.”
He noted that investigations revealed that “the arrested towing van driver impersonated one of the LASTMA towing van operators with a fake identity card and fake LASTMA tow franchisee’s sticker.”
The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Bolaji Oreagba, emphasised the importance of vigilance among the public to prevent any damage to the agency’s reputation.
He warned against the presence of dishonest individuals who may attempt to tarnish the image of LASTMA. Mr. Oreagba urged members of the public to remain cautious and alert, ensuring that they do not fall victim to the schemes of unscrupulous elements. By staying vigilant, the public can help protect the integrity and reputation of LASTMA from any attempts to undermine its credibility.
