Fake LASTMA Officer Nabbed After Extorting Motorist

A 47-year-old man, Adetayo Adewodun, has been arrested for impersonating an officer of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) and extorting money from a motorist around Itire Junction, Lagos.
According to a statement released on Wednesday 8th October , 2025, by the Agency’s Director of Public Affairs, Adebayo Taofiq, Adewodun was caught after extorting ₦7,800 from one Mr. Ayano Stephen, who was driving a white Hilux vehicle (GME 259 TE) belonging to a construction company.
Adewodun reportedly stopped the driver and accused him of making an illegal turn, claiming to be a LASTMA operative.
He initially demanded ₦80,000 as a fine but later collected ₦7,800 before letting the motorist go.
However, the motorist became suspicious and called the Agency’s toll-free hotline to verify the officer’s identity.
Upon confirming that Adewodun was not a staff member, LASTMA’s Surveillance and Intelligence Unit, acting on the directive of its General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, swiftly moved to the location and arrested the impostor.
Preliminary investigation revealed that Adewodun belonged to a three-man gang that specialized in extorting unsuspecting motorists around the Itire axis.
The suspect confessed that the group made about ₦65,000 daily from such illegal activities.
Commending the motorist’s vigilance, Bakare-Oki described the action as a demonstration of civic responsibility.
He reiterated that LASTMA has zero tolerance for impersonation and corruption, warning that anyone caught posing as a traffic officer would face the full wrath of the law.
Bakare-Oki also reminded motorists that genuine LASTMA personnel can be identified by their official uniforms, name tags, and service identification numbers.
He urged members of the public to report any suspicious activity through the Agency’s verified communication channels, especially its toll-free number — 0800-005-27862 — assuring that every report will be promptly investigated.