Lagos Police Detain Officers Over Alleged Harassment, Phone Seizures at Ojuelegba

Fresh concerns over police conduct in Lagos have triggered swift action after officers accused of harassing youths and seizing mobile phones were taken into custody.

The Lagos State Police Command confirmed that the incident, which reportedly occurred at the Ojuelegba Underbridge on Monday night, prompted immediate internal action following public outcry on social media.

Attention was drawn to the case after a user, identified as @ejylemykel1, shared details online, alleging that officers—believed to be attached to the Anti-Cultism Squad—were stopping young people, questioning them, and confiscating their phones without clear justification.

The allegations quickly gained traction, sparking widespread criticism and raising renewed concerns about abuse of power by law enforcement officers in public spaces.

In a statement posted on its official X platform, the police command said the officers involved had been identified, apprehended, and brought before the Commissioner of Police for questioning.

Authorities confirmed that preliminary statements had been taken, after which the Commissioner ordered the officers’ detention pending a full-scale investigation into the incident.

The command also revealed that it has reached out to the complainant, inviting them to provide further information to support a transparent and thorough inquiry.

Police officials stressed that the move is part of efforts to ensure accountability and to establish the facts surrounding the allegations.

Reaffirming its position, the command stated that it does not tolerate misconduct within its ranks and remains committed to professionalism, discipline, and respect for citizens’ rights.

It added that the outcome of the investigation will be made public, while urging residents to continue reporting any inappropriate behaviour by officers as part of broader efforts to strengthen trust in law enforcement.