The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) says a commercial bus driver set ablaze one of its officers while resisting arrest over a violation of traffic regulations.

Adebayo Taofiq, the LASTMA director of public affairs, said the commercial driver and his conductor “brutally attacked” the officer while discharging official duties.

“LASTMA has been made aware of a distressing video showing the driver of a Volkswagen T4 commercial bus, license plate LSD 355 CK, setting both his vehicle and LASTMA officer ablaze in a brazen attempt to evade arrest,” NAN quoted Taofiq to have said.

“This shocking event transpired today (Tuesday), Nov. 5, when the driver resisted arrest with extreme aggression by LASTMA officials.

“The vehicle had been intercepted for violating traffic regulations in the Cele inward Mile 2 area.”

Taofiq said the bus driver and conductor violently resisted arrest, physically assaulted a LASTMA officer, and then doused him with petrol.

He added that the severely burnt LASTMA officer was rushed to a nearby hospital for urgent medical treatment.

The spokesperson implored commercial and private drivers to fully comply with traffic laws and show respect to LASTMA officials’ authority.

“LASTMA will not condone any form of violence or intimidation and will take firm and decisive action against those responsible,” he added.