A 45-year-old man, Mr. Adewunmi Taiwo, has confessed to impersonating an officer of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) and extorting unsuspecting motorists, raking in at least N750,000 monthly.
Taiwo, who was arrested in a sting operation by LASTMA officers on the Oshodi Bridge, admitted to posing as an official to intimidate and collect illegal payments from drivers over traffic offences.
According to LASTMA General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, Taiwo had been using a white Hiace Coaster Bus with the registration number KJA 724 YJ as part of his scam.
“Upon a meticulous search of his vehicle, LASTMA officers uncovered an official LASTMA uniform, including a branded raincoat, among his possessions, confirming his intentions to deceive,” Bakare-Oki stated.
During interrogation, Taiwo, who hails from Ilesha in Osun State and is married with three children, revealed how he operated along busy routes like Ikorodu Road and the Oshodi to Mile-2 Expressway. He confessed to extorting between N15,000 and N25,000 daily from commercial and private motorists.
“The agency had received multiple reports regarding extortion linked to this particular Hiace Coaster Bus,” Bakare-Oki added.
In response to these reports, LASTMA’s Surveillance and Monitoring Unit was deployed to investigate and eventually apprehend the suspect.
Bakare-Oki emphasized that the agency remains committed to maintaining its integrity and professionalism. He warned individuals exploiting LASTMA’s identity for illegal activities to desist, stating, “Any attempt to tarnish the agency’s reputation will be met with the full force of the law when caught.”
The suspect is currently in custody and will face charges for his actions. Bakare-Oki reassured the public of LASTMA’s continued vigilance in enforcing traffic regulations and ensuring the safety and efficacy of road management in Lagos State.