Lagos Task Force arrests five suspects accused of extorting stranded motorists and posing as roadside helpers along major Lagos highways

Operatives of the Lagos State Task Force have arrested five individuals suspected of engaging in motorist extortion along major routes in Lagos, including the Aboru, Abule-Egba–Abeokuta Expressway and the Tafawa Balewa Square axis, in what has been reported as a Lagos Task Force extortion arrest operation.

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According to a statement issued by the agency’s spokesperson, Raheem Gbadeyan, the suspects were apprehended for allegedly targeting stranded motorists whose vehicles had broken down on the road.

The Lagos Task Force extortion arrest followed reports that the individuals posed as roadside helpers and mechanics, only to demand illegal payments from drivers in distress.

The suspects were identified as Alade Olarewaju (25), Oluwadamilare Alabi (38), Sunday Idowu (32), Rabiu Ibrahim (29), and Raji Yusuf (23).

Officials said the arrests were made after a tip-off through emergency hotlines, prompting operatives to intervene while the group was allegedly attempting to extort a motorist with a faulty vehicle.

Preliminary investigations reportedly showed that the suspects had been operating under a pattern of harassment, repeatedly evading arrest despite several public complaints.

The Task Force stated that two of the suspects admitted to focusing on commercial vehicles and trucks that break down while transporting goods.

They were also accused of using intimidation tactics, including threats to remove vehicle parts such as batteries, in order to force payments from victims.

Authorities further alleged that the group sometimes blocked access to stranded vehicles or removed parts like side mirrors to pressure drivers into settling demands.

The suspects have since been arraigned in court on charges including unlawful collection of fees, obstruction of traffic, and conduct likely to cause a breach of public peace.

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The Lagos State Task Force urged residents to report suspicious activities through official channels to enable swift intervention and maintain safety on the roads.