The Lagos State Police Command has reacted to viral claims by social media influencer Abike Raheem, popularly known as Papaya Ex, who alleged that she was assaulted by a police officer during a late-night encounter in Lagos.
Papaya made the claims during an emotional TikTok live session on Friday, February 20, saying the incident occurred in the Ajah area while she was returning from a movie set. She alleged that a police officer slapped her, struck her face with his gun, assaulted her driver, touched her inappropriately, and forcibly took her mobile phone. She also showed what appeared to be injuries.
In response, the spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, Adebisi Abimbola, released a statement explaining the facts of the incident:
A white Mercedes-Benz SUV carrying five occupants—two females and three males—was intercepted during a routine stop-and-search operation.
The occupants failed to provide valid identification. Papaya allegedly repeatedly said, “I am Papaya X, even your bosses know me,” but could not present verifiable ID or details.
The officers requested that the vehicle proceed to Ajah Police Station for proper identification and documentation. An Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) joined them in the SUV, while other officers followed behind.
The driver attempted to evade the police by speeding off, but the vehicle was intercepted by officers from Langbasa Police Division at another checkpoint near Addo Roundabout.
The viral video circulated online was recorded after the SUV was stopped at the second checkpoint.
The Lagos Police confirmed that the matter is under investigation and promised to provide further updates as necessary.
The incident has sparked reactions on social media, with many users debating the claims and the circumstances of the stop.
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