Commissioner of Police in Lagos, Hakeem Odumosu, has warned police officers against seizing motorcycles used for courier services, saying they are not included in the ban on commercial motorcycles, popularly known as Okada, and tricycles.
A statement on Monday by the spokesman of Lagos police, Bala Elkana, said the commissioner had issued a circular to that effect to all the area commanders, DPOs and police officers across the state.
The CP also warned police officers on enforcement to strictly abide by the rules of engagement as contained in the extant laws.
He added that operators of courier services must obey traffic laws.
“Operators of courier services must strictly obey traffic laws and ensure that they do not drive against traffic (one way). Dispatch riders must put on their crash helmets and should have the dispatch box fixed at the back of the motorcycle. The bike must strictly be used for courier purposes, no carrying of passengers. Power bikes are also not affected by the restrictions,” he said.
“…The exercise must be free of harassment and extortion. Erring Police Officers will be dealt with in accordance with the law.”
Meanwhile, 24 suspects were arrested for blocking major roads in Ijora on Monday following a clash between police officers and Okada riders.
Mr Elkana said: “The hoodlums caused major obstructions on the roads, burning tyres, looting and stealing from unsuspecting road users. Police Officers from Ijora Badia, Area B Command and Special Strike Force on Social Miscreants were promptly deployed to the scenes. The situation was brought under control. The obstructions were cleared for free flow of traffic.”
He added that there were no fatalities and that the suspects would be charged to court.
