The Lagos State Police Command has defined why a Rapid Response Squad (RRS) patrol automobile was seen driving in opposition to site visitors in a viral video, saying the officers had been responding to misery calls from motorists trapped in a site visitors jam.
The automobile, marked ‘RRS Attack 07’, was reportedly dispatched by the Command’s Control Room to clear the obstruction and restore the free stream of site visitors.
In a press release posted on its X deal with on Wednesday, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, Tijani Fatai, stated the patrol group, led by an Inspector of Police, was the closest out there police formation to the affected space and had to make use of the other lane to succeed in the supply of the congestion.
“The RRS patrol team, led by an Inspector of Police, was duly detailed by the Command’s Control Room following distress calls from individuals trapped in the same traffic congestion, requesting Police intervention to clear the obstruction and restore the free flow of traffic,” the assertion learn.
The Command stated the choice was aimed toward stopping the congestion from spreading to adjoining roads and disrupting financial actions.
It described the manoeuvre as an operational resolution taken within the curiosity of public security somewhat than a disregard for site visitors laws.
“The team’s action was therefore a deliberate operational decision taken in the interest of public safety and the convenience of other road users, and not an act of arbitrary disregard for traffic regulations,” the Command said.
Citing Regulation 158 of the National Road Traffic Regulations, 2012, the police stated officers responding to emergencies or engaged in civil safety may disregard the instructions of prescribed site visitors indicators, offered they exercised due regard for the protection of different highway customers.
The Command, nevertheless, condemned the alleged harassment and obstruction of the officers through the operation.
It expressed concern over the confrontation and feedback made by some people captured within the video, suggesting that their conduct indicated doable private animosity and makes an attempt to undermine officers finishing up their duties.
“The deliberate blocking of the road by the individuals, thereby denying other motorists and road users access to the road, is unacceptable and constitutes an infringement on the rights of other road users,” the assertion added.
The police additionally maintained that obstructing officers within the lawful discharge of their duties constitutes an offence below Section 98 of the Nigeria Police Act, 2020.
While acknowledging residents’ rights to query police conduct, demand accountability and provide constructive criticism, the Command warned in opposition to intimidation, harassment, provocation and deliberate obstruction of officers.
“The command remains open to genuine complaints, constructive criticism, and legitimate public scrutiny. However, these must be exercised responsibly and within the confines of the law,” it stated.
The Command reaffirmed its dedication to defending residents’ rights whereas urging members of the general public to cooperate with officers finishing up their lawful tasks.
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