The Lagos State Police Command has defended a female officer involved in a stop-and-search operation where a woman accused her of inappropriate touching.

The incident, captured on video and shared on X, showed the officer searching the woman’s bags, pockets, and body at the FESTAC area.

Responding to the video on Sunday, the Command cited the Police Act 2020, stating the officer’s actions were within provisions for crime prevention and public safety.

“The Lagos State Police Command has taken cognisance of this viral video circulating. It is important to state that the action of the officer, as seen in the video, falls within the provisions of the Police Act, 2020, which empowers Police officers to stop and search individuals in public places in the course of crime prevention and public safety duties,” the statement read.

The police emphasised that female suspects must be searched by female officers and defended the thoroughness of the search, citing instances of individuals hiding illicit items in unconventional places.

It added, “Indeed, there have been several instances where individuals conceal illicit substances, weapons, or other incriminating items in unconventional places such as wigs, caps, clothing, and personal effects, necessitating thorough but lawful searches.

“The Command therefore urges members of the public to cooperate with the Police whenever they find themselves in such situations, as such cooperation greatly enhances effective policing and crime prevention.”