AGGRESSIVENESS: Commercial Bus Driver Sets Self, LASTMA Official Ablaze In Lagos
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A yet-to-be-identified commercial bus driver, on Tuesday, November 5, 2024 set himself and an official of Lagos State Traffic Management Agency (LASTMA) on fire while trying to evade arrest.
The driver, out of anger set his bus on fire. The incident created a heavy traffic on Oshodi-Apapa expressway.
It was learnt that both the driver, his conductor as well as the LASTMA official sustained severe burns in the process.
The LASTMA officials were reportedly on an endorsement duty when the incident occurred around noon.
Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of LASTMA, Adebayo Taofiq, who confirmed the incident, said the injured official was rushed to an undisclosed hospital for treatment.
Taofiq said: “LASMA management is aware of a distressing video showing the driver of a Volkswagen T4 commercial bus, with the number plate LSD 355 CK, setting both himself, his vehicle and LASTMA officers ablaze in a brazen attempt to evade arrest.
“The shocking event transpired today, Tuesday, November 5, 2024, when the driver resisted arrest with extreme aggression by LASTMA officials. The vehicle had been intercepted for violating traffic regulations in the Cele inward Mile 2 area.
“In the course of arrest, the driver and his conductor erupted into a frenzy, resorting to pouring petrol on LASTMA personnel and engaging in hostile confrontations and physical attacks against officers present.
“The injured LASTMA officer, who sustained severe burns, was immediately transported to a nearby hospital for urgent medical treatment.
“LASTMA reiterates its unwavering commitment to preserving order and ensuring the safety of Lagos roads, as stipulated in the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law of 2018.
“The agency strongly urges all commercial and other drivers to comply fully with traffic regulations and respect the authority of LASTMA personnel. LASTMA will not condone any form of violence or intimidation and will take firm and decisive action against those responsible.”
