A 30-year-old driver, Saheed Akinyemi, who allegedly assaulted a policeman and tore his uniform was on Wednesday arraigned at an Ikeja Magistrates’ Court.
Saheed was also accused of conducting himself in a manner likely to cause a breach of public peace by resisting arrest.
The defendant, who resides at No. 1 Afisuuru Close, Mosalashi, Lagos, is facing a three-count charge bothering on assault and breach of peace.
According to the Police Prosecutor, Sgt. Nomayo Kenrich, the defendant committed the offence on Feb. 8 at 1.30 p.m. at Jankara Ijaiye, Ojokoro, a Lagos suburb.
“The defendant assaulted Sgt. Omuh Benjamin, the police officer attached to Ijaiye Ojokoro Police Station, by hitting him with elbow on the face while performing his lawful duties,’’ the prosecutor said.
He said the defendant willfully tore the uniform of the officer following the disagreement.
According to the prosecutor, the defendant was using a vehicle to tow a Toyota Camry car suspected to be stolen when the officer stopped him for questioning, but he refused.
“The defendant refused to stop for questioning. In the process, the rope connecting the two cars cut.
“The officer demanded for the vehicle particulars and tow permit, but was attacked by the defendant,” the prosecutor said.
He said the offence contravened Sections 168 (d), 174 (b) and 350 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015 (Revised).
Section 174 (b) stipulates three years imprisonment for assault, while Section 350 prescribes a fine of N45, 000 or three months imprisonment for contempt on uniforms.
The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charge.
The Magistrate, Mrs E. Kubeinje, granted the defendant N50, 000 bail with one surety.
She adjourned the case until May 30 for hearing. (NAN)
