Lagos Police Detains Officers Over Seizure of Phones from Youths

The Lagos State Police Command has placed a number of its officers in custody over claims that they harassed young people and illegally confiscated their mobile phones in the Ojuelegba Underbridge area of the state.

A social media user, identified as @ejylemykel1, had shared a complaint online revealing how officers of the Nigerian Police Force carried out the act on Monday night.

The post quickly sparked public reactions, with many expressing concern about alleged misconduct by law enforcement personnel.

According to the complainant, the officers, suspected to be attached to the Anti-Cultism Squad, were seen stopping young people, interrogating them, and confiscating their phones without clear justification. The actions were described as an abuse of authority.

In response, the Lagos State Police Command issued a statement via its official 𝕏 handle, confirming that the officers involved had been identified and promptly detained.

The command disclosed that the officers were presented before the Commissioner of Police, where preliminary statements were obtained.

Following this, the Commissioner ordered their detention pending a comprehensive investigation into the matter.

The police also stated that contact has been established with the complainant, who has been invited to assist investigators by providing additional details to aid the inquiry.

According to the command, this step is necessary to ensure a transparent and thorough review of the allegations.

Reaffirming its stance, the police assured the public that it takes issues of misconduct seriously and remains committed to upholding professionalism, discipline, and accountability within its ranks.

The command added that the findings of the investigation will be made public upon conclusion and encouraged citizens to continue reporting any inappropriate behaviour by officers.