LASTMA Nabs Impersonator Extorting Vehicle Owners in Oshodi, Lagos

Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) apprehended a serial impersonator who had been collecting substantial sums from owners of impounded vehicles.

The suspect, identified as Femi Adegbemi (56 years old), was arrested at Oshodi after the monitoring and surveillance team of LASTMA received complaints of extortions from owners of inter-state commercial buses.

Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department at LASTMA, Mr. Adebayo Taofiq, confirmed the arrest, stating that the suspect had collected N140,000 from owners of vehicles impounded for traffic infractions. Investigations revealed that Adegbemi had been engaging in this illegal activity, promising vehicle owners a release from LASTMA’s custody in exchange for money.

“The arrested suspect collected N140,000 from owners/drivers by promising to help them get their impounded vehicles released from the custody of the Agency,” Mr. Taofiq explained.

The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Bakare-Oki Olalekan, expressed concern over such unscrupulous activities tarnishing the agency’s image. He warned the public to be cautious, emphasizing that LASTMA operates a cashless policy, and violators apprehended are charged to court through a ‘Referral Notice.’

Adegbemi, during questioning, admitted to living at No. 9, Anifowose Street, Somolu, and confessed to making an average of N250,000 weekly from his illicit dealings with other colleagues. Despite his confession, he expressed a willingness to reform if spared by the government.

In response, the Director of Legal Department at LASTMA, Barr. Akerele Kehinde, disclosed that Adegbemi would be promptly charged to court to serve as a deterrent to others involved in similar fraudulent activities. The agency has intensified surveillance and monitoring efforts to identify and apprehend such individuals duping innocent members of the motoring public across the state.