Lagos Police address viral video alleging indecent touching by officer

Cityscope, Crime Diary

LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA) — 29 March 2026 — The Lagos State Police Command has responded to a viral video in which a woman alleged she was harassed and touched inappropriately by an officer in the Festac area.

In a statement on Sunday, the Command explained that the officer’s actions fell within the provisions of the Police Act, 2020, which empowers officers to stop and search individuals in public places for crime prevention and public safety. It stressed, however, that established procedures require female suspects to be searched by female officers.

The police noted that suspects often conceal illicit substances, weapons, or incriminating items in unconventional places such as wigs, caps, and clothing, making thorough searches necessary. It said the search conducted on the social media user was lawful and in line with operational standards.

In the video, Newpost Africa confirmed that the female suspect was indeed searched by a female officer.

“The Command therefore urges members of the public to cooperate with the Police whenever they find themselves in such situations, as such cooperation greatly enhances effective policing and crime prevention,” the statement concluded.