In a move to safeguard motorists and protect public infrastructure, the Lagos State Police Command has arrested a suspected vandal caught tampering with road safety installations on the Third Mainland Bridge.
The suspect, identified as Dogara John, 18, was apprehended by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) on April 6, 2026, at about 5:30 p.m. while allegedly removing reflective road studs installed on the bridge to aid visibility and guide motorists.
The arrest, according to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, followed sustained patrol and surveillance efforts aimed at curbing vandalism and ensuring safety along critical routes across the state.
“Operatives of the Rapid Response Squad, while on patrol, caught the suspect in the act of tampering with essential road safety installations on the Third Mainland Bridge,” Adebisi said.
She explained that a search conducted at the scene led to the recovery of 20 reflective road studs already removed from their positions, noting that the devices are crucial for lane guidance, especially at night and during adverse weather conditions.
“These road studs are not mere fittings; they are critical safety components designed to enhance visibility and help prevent accidents on one of the busiest corridors in the state,” she added.
Adebisi stressed that the suspect’s actions, if left unchecked, could have posed significant risks to motorists, particularly given the high traffic volume on the bridge.
“The Command views acts of vandalism seriously, as they endanger lives and undermine government’s investment in public infrastructure,” she stated.
Reiterating the stance of the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Tijani Fatai, she said the Command maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward vandalism and related offences.
“The Commissioner of Police has directed that all such cases be thoroughly investigated and perpetrators brought to justice to serve as a deterrent to others,” Adebisi said.
She further called on residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities around public infrastructure to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency lines.
“We urge members of the public to partner with the Police by providing timely and credible information that will help in protecting critical infrastructure and ensuring public safety,” she added.
The suspect is currently in custody while investigations are ongoing.
