Public transporter knifes LASTMA officer in Ojota

 

By

Omowumi Hannah

A commercial bus driver has allegedly stabbed an official of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority in the Ojota area of Lagos.

The incident involved a painted Caravelle GL Volkswagen commercial bus with registration number EKY 693 YK.

The agency said the vehicle was intercepted for violating traffic regulations after it was operated along the Ojota–Ketu corridor with its passenger door left open while fully loaded with commuters.

According to the agency, the driver resisted arrest upon interception on the main carriageway and attempted to escape by mounting the median in a bid to flee.

The attempt was, however, cut short when the vehicle developed a mechanical fault and became immobilised.

Frustrated by the failed escape, the driver allegedly turned violent.

He reportedly grabbed a broken bottle from inside the bus and attacked the enforcement officers, stabbing one of them in the fingers of his right hand.

The attack resulted in severe fractures and significant blood loss before the suspect fled the scene.

The Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of LASTMA, Mr Adebayo Taofiq, said the vehicle was immediately impounded in line with statutory provisions, while the injured officer was rushed to a medical facility for treatment.

He said the officer underwent emergency surgery and, due to the severity of the fractures sustained, two fingers required immediate operative reconstruction.

“He remains under close medical observation and comprehensive care,” Taofiq said.

The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr Olalekan Bakare-Oki, condemned the attack, describing it as unacceptable.

He said the incident is being thoroughly investigated by the Police and that prosecutorial steps are underway to ensure the arrest and diligent prosecution of the suspect.

Bakare-Oki added that any act of violence against traffic enforcement personnel constitutes a direct affront to lawful authority and civil order, calling commercial transport operators to desist from reckless non-compliance with traffic laws, warning that the authority would continue to intensify enforcement operations to safeguard public safety and uphold regulatory discipline across Lagos State.