The police command in Lagos apprehended a 22-year-old suspected impostor who stole a police uniform and posed as a policeman.

In a statement posted on its official X handle, @LagosPoliceNG, on Tuesday, the command said the suspect allegedly stole a police officer’s bag containing a camouflage uniform, a warrant card, a mobile phone, an ATM card, and other personal belongings.

“The suspect subsequently wore the stolen camouflage uniform in an attempt to impersonate a police officer.

“However, vigilant passersby became suspicious after noticing that his behaviour and mannerisms were inconsistent with those of a genuine officer. The residents questioned him and discovered that he was an impostor and handed him to the police for further investigation,” the statement said.

According to the statement, the suspect is currently in police custody, while investigations are ongoing.

The command said the action demonstrated the effectiveness of its ‘See Something, Say Something’ campaign and underscored the importance of public participation in maintaining security.

The police condemned any form of jungle justice, stressing that the laws of Lagos State do not permit individuals to take the law into their own hands, irrespective of the alleged offence committed by a suspect.

The police urged the public to promptly hand over suspected offenders to the police or other law enforcement agencies for proper investigation and prosecution in accordance with the law.

The command reiterated its call for residents to remain vigilant and continue partnering with the police by promptly reporting suspicious persons, movements, and activities, while allowing the law to take its course.

(NAN)