The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has arrested a 47-year-old man, identified as Adewodun, for allegedly impersonating one of its officials and extorting ₦7,800 from an unsuspecting motorist.
According to LASTMA’s General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, the suspect was apprehended near Itire Junction after extorting the victim, Mr. Stephen Ayano, under the pretext of penalizing him for an unlawful turn. The suspect initially demanded ₦80,000 before collecting ₦7,800.
Bakare-Oki said the motorist became suspicious and contacted the agency via its toll-free hotline (0800-00-LASTMA). LASTMA’s Surveillance and Intelligence Unit immediately swung into action, leading to the suspect’s arrest after a brief chase.
During interrogation, Adewodun confessed to belonging to a three-man gang that regularly impersonates LASTMA officials to extort motorists, making about ₦65,000 daily.
Commending the victim’s vigilance, Bakare-Oki emphasized LASTMA’s zero tolerance for impersonation and extortion. He urged the public to verify suspicious officers through the agency’s official channels and confirmed that the suspect would be arraigned before a Mobile Court.
thank God they caught him