Police arrest 12 suspects over alleged vandalism of Lagos-Calabar coastal highway

The Lagos State Police Command announced the arrest of six individuals following a viral video that depicted youths harassing motorists in the city. In a statement shared on Thursday via their official X account, the police acknowledged the widespread circulation of footage showing "some miscreants harassing motorists and creating distress along the road."

The video, posted by user @MrMekzy on Wednesday, captured a group of young men surrounding a private vehicle in traffic, engaging in aggressive gestures, waving objects, and pressing against the car, causing potential damage to the side mirror. The poster of the video expressed concern over the incident, questioning how people were coping with such behavior in Lagos and why no one was taking action.

The police clarified that they had been monitoring and taking proactive measures against such activities prior to the video's viral spread. Following the incident, six suspects were arrested on the same road, and ongoing investigations are underway. Additional police officers have been strategically deployed to enhance surveillance and prevent similar occurrences.

The command expressed gratitude to the public for bringing the matter to their attention and encouraged residents to continue providing credible information to maintain safety in Lagos. This development comes amid growing public complaints about the activities of street touts, commonly referred to as agberos, who are accused of harassing motorists, extorting money, and damaging vehicles across the state.

Notable figures such as actress Bimbo Ademoye, comedian Brain Jotter, and music video director TG Omori have publicly criticized these incidents involving street touts and area boys targeting motorists and film crews.