Driver stabs LASTMA officer over traffic violation

A commercial bus driver allegedly stabbed an officer of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) during an enforcement operation at Ojota Interchange on Saturday, leaving the official seriously injured.

The incident involved a painted Volkswagen Caravelle commercial bus with registration number EKY 693 YK along Ikorodu Road.

According to LASTMA’s General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, the vehicle was stopped for violating traffic regulations after it was seen operating with its passenger door left open while carrying commuters — a practice he described as dangerous to both passengers and other road users.

Bakare-Oki said the driver resisted arrest and attempted to flee by mounting the road median, but the vehicle broke down and became immobilised. He alleged that the suspect then turned violent.

“In a shocking display of aggression, the driver grabbed a broken bottle inside the bus and attacked our officers,” Bakare-Oki said. “One officer sustained deep cuts and fractures to his fingers while trying to restrain him.”

The injured officer reportedly suffered heavy bleeding and was rushed to a hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery. Two fingers required reconstructive procedures, and he remains under close medical supervision.

The driver fled the scene after the attack, while the vehicle was impounded by authorities.

Bakare-Oki condemned the assault and confirmed that the police, working with LASTMA, had launched a manhunt for the suspect. He added that investigations were ongoing and that the agency would pursue prosecution once the driver is apprehended.

He warned commercial transport operators against resisting lawful enforcement or violating traffic rules, stressing that attacks on traffic officials undermine public safety and would attract strict legal consequences.

LASTMA reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing traffic regulations and maintaining order on Lagos roads.