Police Detain Officers Caught On Video Assaulting Youths, Seizing Phones Under Lagos Bridge

Eyewitness accounts and footage circulating online showed uniformed officers confronting young men, with allegations that the officers used force and seized personal belongings, including mobile devices.

The Nigeria Police Force has detained officers captured in a viral video allegedly assaulting youths and confiscating their mobile phones in Lagos, in an incident that has triggered widespread outrage and renewed scrutiny of police conduct.

The incident reportedly occurred on Tuesday under the Ojuelegba Bridge, a bustling commercial hub known for heavy vehicular traffic and constant human activity.

Reacting swiftly to the public backlash, the Lagos State Police Command confirmed that the officers involved have been identified and taken into custody as part of an internal disciplinary process.

In a statement issued via its official handle, the Command said, “The officers involved have been identified and brought before the Commissioner of Police. Their statements have been obtained, and he has ordered their detention pending further investigation.”

The police authorities further disclosed that efforts are underway to ensure a thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation into the matter. According to the statement, the Command has also initiated contact with the complainant to obtain firsthand information that could aid the probe.

“Meanwhile, the Command has contacted the complainant, who is expected to report tomorrow to provide his statement and assist in the ongoing investigation. The outcome of the investigation will be made public in due course,” the statement noted.

The latest development comes against the backdrop of persistent public concerns over police misconduct in Nigeria, particularly allegations involving harassment, extortion, and abuse of authority by some officers.

Civil society groups and rights advocates have repeatedly called for stronger accountability mechanisms within the police system.