The Lagos State Task Force has terminated the employment of two officers, Fatai Yusuf (42) and Hammed Garuba (38), over their involvement in theft during a recent operation.
The agency’s spokesperson, Abdulraheem Gbadeyan, revealed this in a statement on Friday.
According to Gbadeyan, the officers stole mobile phones during a raid at a hotel in Gowon Estate, a location notorious for accommodating drug users and traffickers, where several suspects were apprehended.
He noted that the integrity of the operation was compromised by the officers’ misconduct, which was caught on CCTV.
He stated that the officers were found guilty of stealing mobile phones from the scene.
“Both individuals, who served as paramilitary personnel within the agency, underwent a thorough investigation by the disciplinary committee.
“After their guilt was confirmed, they were promptly dismissed from service and will face prosecution for theft,” he explained.
The spokesperson added that the agency’s chairman, CSP Adetayo Akerele, condemned their actions and emphasized the agency’s steadfast dedication to integrity and accountability.
Akerele issued a firm warning to all personnel, stressing that any violation of ethical standards would result in strict penalties,” he stated.
Gbadeyan highlighted that the task force operates on principles of discipline, fairness, and justice, and any action that undermines its credibility or public trust would be handled swiftly and decisively.
He also noted that, in a related development, those arrested during the raid had been brought before the court.
“The initial group of 53 drug traffickers and users arrested in previous operations have been charged and remanded at the Badagry Correctional Centre,” he added.
This week, the task force conducted another raid targeting drug hotspots and illegal structures within Gowon Estate, Ipaja, Lagos, leading to the arrest of 43 more suspects,” he stated.
The operation also resulted in the demolition of identified drug dens and shanties to prevent recurring criminal activities in the area.
“All arrested individuals have been swiftly arraigned, reflecting the agency’s unwavering commitment to combating drug-related crimes and ensuring public safety,” the spokesperson added.
