Lagos State Police Command has arrested and detained a police sergeant, Samuel Philips, for pulling his gun’s trigger, killing an 18-year-old lady, Monsurat Ojuade in th early hours of Saturday, September 11, 2021.
The state Commissioner of Police, Hakeem Odumosu has also directed that the said police officer should be tried and charged to court immediately after being dismissed from the Force.
In a statement issued on Sunday, September 12, the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Adekunle Ajisebutu, said that the command got the information that a stray bullet hit the deceased at about 1am when a team of detectives from the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti went on investigation activities to arrest a robbery suspect in Ijeshatedo area.
According to the PPRO, “concerted efforts were made to save the life of the injured victim. She was immediately taken to the hospital for urgent medical attention but later died on the way.”
He stated further that the Commissioner of Police regretted the unfortunate but avoidable incident and commiserated with the bereaved family, with him also sharing in their pains at the moment of grief.
“This is therefore to inform the bereaved family, sympathizers and the general public that the erring police officer who pulled the trigger has been identified and is currently being detained.
“The Commissioner of Police has directed that the said police officer should be tried and charged to court immediately after being dismissed from the Force.
“This, it is believed, will serve as deterrent to others who do not act professionally in the course of their duties.
“This singular sad incident notwithstanding, the Lagos State Police Command shall continue to strive vigorously and conscientiously to protect the lives of property of the citizens in the state,” Ajisebutu added.