(DDM) – The Lagos State Police Command has begun a full-scale investigation into a disturbing viral video showing a uniformed police officer being violently attacked by a mob following an allegation of theft.
DDM gathered that the incident, shared widely on social media platforms including X through the handle General_Somto, has generated intense public debate over rising confrontations between citizens and security operatives.
The footage reportedly captures the officer struggling to defend himself as a group of individuals rough-handle, punch, and drag him while accusing him of involvement in a petty theft case.
The circulating clip, which spread rapidly within hours, has sparked outrage among rights advocates and security analysts who warn that mob justice continues to escalate in Lagos and other Nigerian cities.
Preliminary reports indicate that the officer was surrounded by an irate crowd who claimed he attempted to steal an undisclosed item, though the exact details remain unclear.
The Lagos State Police Command confirmed that an internal inquiry has been opened to determine the facts surrounding the incident and to identify all individuals involved.
Authorities say the officer has been placed under protective supervision while statements are being obtained from eyewitnesses, bystanders, and colleagues present at the scene.
Background checks reveal that Lagos has recorded multiple cases of mob attacks in recent years, often arising from allegations of theft, phone snatching, and traffic-related disputes.
Human rights groups have repeatedly condemned the trend, stressing that Nigeria’s legal system prohibits any form of jungle justice, regardless of the identity of the suspect involved.
Security experts also note that attacks on uniformed officers undermine state authority and endanger ongoing efforts to rebuild community trust in policing.
The Nigeria Police Force has historically faced public scrutiny over misconduct claims, corruption reports, and citizen harassment accusations.
However, analysts maintain that accountability must follow due process rather than street judgment, especially when allegations are unverified.
In previous years, several officers were assaulted by mobs during clashes arising from misunderstandings, false accusations, or disputes over enforcement procedures.
These incidents have pushed the Force to emphasize stronger public sensitization and improved conflict-resolution strategies during community engagements.
In response to the current case, the Lagos Police Command stated that any officer found culpable of theft will face disciplinary action, including dismissal and prosecution if necessary.
They also stressed that civilians who participated in the assault would face legal consequences for taking the law into their own hands.
Legal practitioners say this case highlights a deeper issue involving public frustration with law enforcement, economic hardship, and declining public confidence in traditional complaint-reporting channels.
Many Nigerians believe the rapid spread of the video demonstrates the growing influence of social media in shaping public opinion about policing and justice.
Observers argue that the viral clip could either expose wrongdoing or portray a misinterpreted situation, depending on the outcome of the investigation.
Digital analysts warn that online footage, while powerful, can sometimes lack context, creating misinformation loops that influence public reactions before official facts emerge.
The Lagos Police Command assured the public that findings from the investigation will be made public to maintain transparency and protect institutional integrity.
They further appealed to Lagos residents to avoid mob action under any circumstance, reminding citizens that every suspect is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
Public expectations are now high as Nigerians await the official report that will clarify whether the officer was wrongfully attacked or genuinely linked to the alleged theft incident.