Lagos arrests 227 suspects as Taskforce raids black spots

Operatives of the Lagos State Taskforce have apprehended 277 individuals across the state during a week-long operation targeting known criminal hotspots.

Intelligence findings and complaints from residents in the affected locations influenced the operation.

Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, the agency’s spokesperson, disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday.

According to him, Adetayo Akerele, the Taskforce chairman, led the enforcement exercise, which focused on areas notorious for illegal activities and makeshift settlements.

Abdulraheem explained that the raids commenced daily at about 1:30 a.m. and spanned critical points on both the island and mainland.

The locations covered included Victoria Island, Osborne Road, Chevron Axis, Lekki Roundabouts, Obalende, Ikota, Ikoyi, Falomo Bridge, the vicinity of the Law School, Eko Hotel, Oniru Beach, as well as railway tracks in Agege, Isale Oja in Ketu, and the AP Roundabout.

Akerele described the operation as part of a larger initiative to recover public spaces taken over by miscreants, pickpockets, and other criminal groups, and to reinforce public order across the metropolis.

“These individuals have been causing disruptions and posing a threat to the safety of responsible citizens.

“With this exercise, we haven’t just restored peace; we’ve made it clear that Lagos will not be a haven for lawlessness,” Akerele added.

He also confirmed that all 277 suspects have been prosecuted under existing state laws.

Speaking on the outcome of the operation, the chairman reaffirmed the Taskforce’s strong commitment to the protection of lives, properties, and public environments across Lagos.

“Anyone intending to destabilize the safety and peace of our neighborhoods must stop now or be ready to face the consequences,” he warned.

“We remain resolute in our mission to deliver a safer, cleaner Lagos,” Akerele concluded.