Man accused of stealing cement jumps into Lagos lagoon, dies

A man known as Azeez, reportedly took a fatal plunge into the waters of the Lekki-Ikoyi Bridge in Lagos State. The unfortunate incident unfolded amidst accusations of him pilfering bags of cement.

Man accused of stealing cement jumps into Lagos lagoon, dies

According to reports gathered by PUNCH Metro, the distressing event unfolded around 10:45 a.m. on Friday. Eyewitnesses recounted that Azeez found himself pursued by another individual, ultimately leading him to leap into the lagoon.

Eyewitness Account

A police source, preferring anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter, disclosed to PUNCH Metro that the director of Lagos State Emergency Management Agency operations in Lagos Central was alerted to the incident. The call came in around 12:20 p.m., prompting immediate action.

“On April 26, 2024, at approximately 12:20 p.m., the director overseeing LASEMA operations in Lagos Central received a distress call regarding an incident at the Lekki-Ikoyi link bridge. Upon arrival, he encountered a gathering of onlookers by the waterside, observing the lifeless body of the unfortunate individual, later identified as Azeez.”

The source continued, revealing that medical responders at the scene confirmed Azeez’s demise. Tragically, it was revealed that Azeez’s decision to jump into the lagoon was a response to allegations of cement theft.

Police Confirmation and Ongoing Investigation

When reached for comment, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the incident. Hundeyin disclosed that Azeez’s body had been moved to the Mainland General Hospital for preservation and autopsy. Additionally, he stated that police officials had commenced an inquiry into the matter.

A Series of Tragic Events

This sorrowful incident adds to a string of similar occurrences in the region. Notably, PUNCH Metro previously reported on the case of Nimotalahi Ishola, a woman who tragically jumped into the lagoon while aboard a ferry at Igando. Furthermore, the Lagos State Police Command recently revealed that seven individuals had drowned across various locations in the state, including hotel swimming pools, beaches, and the lagoon.

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