The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has expressed strong condemnation over the recent assault on its patrol team during a routine operation at Shao junction, located in the Olooru Local Government Area of Kwara State.
The unfortunate incident took place when a traffic offender, who had been apprehended for violating road safety regulations, resorted to disruptive behavior by stripping naked and climbing onto the bonnet of the FRSC patrol vehicle. The offender’s actions were aimed at inciting the public against the officers.
This information was made public through a press statement issued on Monday, October 21, 2024.
The Corps Marshal of the FRSC, Mallam Shehu Mohammed, voiced serious concern over the misconduct displayed by the motorcyclist, who had been stopped for riding without a helmet a clear violation of safety regulations.
According to the Corps Marshal, the offender not only resisted arrest but also deliberately created a dramatic scene that attracted the attention of bystanders.
This eventually escalated, as some members of the crowd forcibly removed the impounded motorcycle from the patrol vehicle and physically attacked the FRSC personnel. The crowd’s aggression intensified, with some threatening to destroy the patrol vehicle.
The situation, which could have descended into further chaos, was brought under control thanks to the swift intervention of the police.
Law enforcement officers managed to arrest one of the individuals involved in the attack, although the primary offender managed to flee the scene along with the motorcycle.
In his statement, the Corps Marshal issued a stern warning against any form of violence targeted at FRSC personnel while they are executing their lawful duty of ensuring road safety.
He reassured the public that the FRSC would take all necessary steps to ensure that those responsible for the attack are held accountable.
The Corps is committed to seeing that justice is served in this case, with the aim of preventing similar incidents in the future.
“While our patrol teams are expected to conduct themselves with the utmost civility in the performance of their duties, the FRSC will not tolerate situations where traffic offenders, in collaboration with members of the public, subject our personnel to ridicule or physical attack,” the Corps Marshal stated.
He also recalled that he had on several occasions advised the public to refrain from resorting to violence when they feel aggrieved by the actions of the FRSC.
Instead, he urged people to seek legitimate and lawful means of addressing their grievances, stressing that such disputes can always be resolved through appropriate legal channels.
The Corps Marshal concluded by emphasizing the need for public cooperation with the FRSC, reiterating that road safety is a collective responsibility.
He called on all road users to play their part in maintaining order on the roads, highlighting that the FRSC’s primary mission is to ensure the safety and well-being of all citizens.
