The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has confirmed that one of its officers was violently attacked and set on fire by a commercial bus driver and his assistant, also known as the ‘Conductor,’ in the Cele area near Mile 2 in Lagos.
Reports indicate that the officer suffered severe burns after the attackers allegedly poured petrol on him in an attempt to avoid arrest for a traffic violation.
In a statement, LASTMA’s Director of Public Affairs, Adebayo Taofiq, shared details of the incident, which was captured on video.
The footage shows the driver of a Volkswagen T4 bus (license plate LSD 355 CK) pouring petrol on the LASTMA officer during a violent altercation.
The incident occurred on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, after LASTMA officials intercepted the vehicle for violating traffic regulations in the Cele area heading toward Mile 2. During the arrest, the driver and his assistant became hostile, pouring petrol on the officer and physically attacking other personnel present.
The injured officer was quickly rushed to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment.
Adebayo Taofiq emphasized LASTMA’s dedication to maintaining order on Lagos roads and ensuring public safety, as outlined in the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law of 2018.
He called on all drivers, especially commercial ones, to comply with traffic laws and respect LASTMA’s authority, warning that the agency will take strict action against any form of violence or intimidation.
