Police have launched an investigation into a traffic officer captured on video allegedly slapping and striking a commercial tricycle rider with a stick near Congo Cross.

The incident, which occurred during a routine traffic stop, was widely shared on social media and sparked public outrage. The footage showed the officer confronting a young keke rider in an orange safety vest before raising his hand and slapping him across the face. The rider is heard shouting and appealing to bystanders if they witnessed the assault.

Internal Affairs Minister Morie Lengor has strongly condemned the officer’s conduct, describing it as “very unfortunate and unprofessional.”

Lengor said he was deeply concerned after watching the video. He disclosed that he immediately attempted to contact the Inspector General of Police. When unable to reach him, he contacted the Deputy Inspector General and instructed police leadership to thoroughly investigate the incident and take appropriate disciplinary action.

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The minister emphasized that the incident highlights concerns about professionalism and training within the police force, noting that gaps in training must be addressed to ensure officers conduct themselves according to professional standards.

“This is so embarrassing,” one social media user commented. “A police officer should not be using his hands to slap a citizen. This officer needs to be suspended or sacked for this kind of misbehavior.”

Lengor reaffirmed the government’s commitment to accountability and professionalism in law enforcement, stressing that any misconduct by security personnel should be properly investigated and dealt with in line with established procedures.

The keke rider was initially detained following the altercation but has since been granted bail to await further court hearings. Authorities have not yet released an official statement on the status of the investigation.