The Osun State Police Command has arrested a man who was seen in a viral video attacking a female traffic officer while she was on duty.
According to a statement released on Tuesday by Police Public Relations Officer Abiodun Ojelabi, the suspect was traced and apprehended in Edo State after fleeing from the scene in Osun.
The police explained that the incident, which sparked public outrage online, showed the suspect assaulting the officer with a stick and shovel while she was carrying out lawful traffic control duties.
“Following the disturbing incident, which showed the suspect attacking the innocent female officer with a stick and shovel, the Police immediately launched a coordinated intelligence-led operation to apprehend the perpetrator.
“The suspect, who fled the scene and escaped to Edo State in an attempt to evade arrest, was successfully tracked and apprehended today,” the statement read.
Ojelabi added that the arrest demonstrates the command’s commitment to ensuring that attacks on law enforcement personnel do not go unpunished.
He further stressed that “Assault on Police officers performing their lawful duties is a serious criminal offence, and the Force will not tolerate any form of attack on its personnel.”
The suspect is currently in custody and will face prosecution after investigations are completed.
The Commissioner of Police also condemned the attack, describing it as “barbaric and unacceptable,” and urged the public to respect security officers and cooperate with them while they perform their duties.
Residents were also advised to remain law-abiding and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station.