The Lagos State Police Command has arrested four suspects over the alleged mob killing of Basit Kolade in the Lagos Island area of the state.
The command’s spokesperson, Abimbola Adebisi, disclosed in a statement on Sunday that the incident occurred at about 10:40pm on Wednesday, September 2, on Freeman Street, Lagos Island.
According to Adebisi, Kolade was travelling with his spouse in a black Lexus Jeep when a motorcycle allegedly crashed into the vehicle from behind.
“Preliminary investigation revealed that Basit Kolade was travelling with his spouse from Ebute Metta towards Lagos Island in a black Lexus Jeep, with registration number KSF 115 JZ, when a motorcycle allegedly collided with the vehicle from behind.
“An argument reportedly ensued between both of them. In the course of the incident, the vehicle allegedly reversed and hit the motorcycle, causing the rider and the motorcycle to fall.
“This reportedly attracted a group of individuals in the area, who allegedly attacked Basit with dangerous weapons.“
The police said Kolade’s spouse was rescued by women in the area while the attack was ongoing.
Kolade was subsequently taken to the Lagos Island General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The motorcycle rider, however, survived and was receiving medical treatment, according to the police.
The four suspects arrested over the incident were identified as Khalid Rafiq, 20; Gafar Rahim, 21; Ibrahim Azeez, 33; and Samos Momoh, 21.
Adebisi said the command was continuing efforts to identify and apprehend other individuals allegedly involved in the attack.
“The Command has commenced an investigation into the incident, which is being treated as a homicide case, and the matter has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, for further investigation and appropriate legal action.
“The Command wishes to reiterate that the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended, guarantees every person the fundamental right to life under Section 33. The Constitution permits deprivation of life only in circumstances specifically recognised by law,” the statement added.
The Commissioner of Police, Fatai Tijani, directed that everyone found culpable in the incident should be identified, arrested and prosecuted.
The command also assured members of the public that the investigation would be handled professionally and thoroughly.
