The Lagos State Police Command has announced the apprehension of four individuals in connection with an alleged mob attack that tragically led to the death of Basit Kolade, a Lexus driver, on Freeman Street, Lagos Island. Mr Kolade was reportedly set upon with dangerous weapons by a group following a road traffic altercation.
SP Abimbola Adebisi, the Public Relations Officer for the Lagos State Police, detailed that Mr Kolade was travelling with his spouse from Ebute Metta towards Lagos Island in a black Lexus Jeep, bearing the registration number KSF 115 JZ. It was at this point that a motorcycle allegedly collided with the rear of his vehicle. This initial incident, according to reports, quickly escalated into an argument between Mr Kolade and the motorcycle rider.
During the heated confrontation, the Lexus driver reportedly reversed his vehicle, striking the motorcycle and causing both the rider and the vehicle to fall. This action, according to police reports, drew the attention of a crowd, who then purportedly attacked Mr Kolade using dangerous weapons. While his spouse was fortunately rescued by women in the vicinity, Mr Kolade was rushed to Lagos Island General Hospital, where he was tragically pronounced dead.
The Police Spokesperson confirmed that the motorcycle rider involved in the initial collision survived the ordeal and is currently receiving medical treatment. She identified the four suspects now in custody as Khalid Rafiq, 20; Gafar Rahim, 21; Ibrahim Azeez, 33; and Samos Momoh, 21. Efforts are actively underway, she added, to identify and apprehend any other individuals who may have participated in the brutal assault.
The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Panti for thorough investigation and appropriate legal action. The police are treating the incident as a homicide and have issued a stark warning to Lagos residents against vigilantism, mob action, and any form of self-help. SP Adebisi emphasised that mere suspicion or an allegation of wrongdoing does not empower anyone to bypass the rule of law. She urged the public to report all criminal incidents to the police and permit due process to unfold.
CP Tijani Fatai, the Commissioner of Police for the Lagos State Command, has issued strict directives to ensure that all persons found culpable in this incident are identified, arrested, and prosecuted in accordance with the law. He reassured the public of a professional and comprehensive investigation, affirming that anyone proven to have participated in the attack or contributed to Mr Kolade’s death will face the full consequences of their actions under Nigerian law.