Joy Anyim
Enforcement operatives from the Lagos State Police Command, on Thursday, arrested 202 persons for violating the state government’s stay at home order.
The suspects, who were arrested while playing football on major streets, and having group exercises, were arraigned at the Lagos Mobile Court.
Confirming the arrest of the suspects in a statement issued, on Thursday, by the command’s spokesperson, Elkana Bala, the suspects arrested along Iju, Sabo, Ikeja, Itire, Ikotun, Ogudu, Akinpelu, Maroko, Alapere, Anthony, Orile, Owode Onirin and Ilemba Hausa areas.
READ ALSO: https://www.thexpressng.com/2020/04/10/two-police-officers-in-trouble-for-extorting-women-of-n10000/
The suspects whose age ranged from 15 to 42, were sentenced to two hours of community service, and payment of N10,000 each.
The statement read, “ Police Officers on enforcement of restriction of movements order arrested 202 suspects for violating the stay at home directives of Government.
“The suspects were arrested playing football on major streets and having group exercise in large number, which neglect the principles of social distancing.
“The suspects were arraigned in Lagos State Special Offences (Mobile) Court on one count charge of violating the social distancing directives of Lagos State Government contrary to Regulation 8(1)( a) &(b) and 17(1)(i) of Lagos State Infectious Disease (Emergency prevention) Regulation 2020. It is an offence punishable under Section 58 Public Health Law Cap P16 Laws of Lagos State, 2015.
“Among the suspects charged, 189 pleaded guilty to the charge while 13 pleaded not guilty. At the end of the trial, the suspects were found guilty as charged and ordered to pay N10,000 each as fines.
“They are also sentenced to two hours community service, which was supervised by officials of social welfare.”
