Lagos intensifies crackdown on hoodlums extorting motorists along Lekki-Ajah road
Lagos State Intensifies Crackdown on Highway Criminals
LAGOS—The Lagos State Government has increased its enforcement efforts against individuals suspected of harassing motorists, extorting road users, and obstructing traffic on major highways.
Tokunbo Wahab, Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, announced the initiative in a post on X on Sunday. He revealed that operatives from the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) executed a midnight operation along the Lekki-Ajah expressway.
The operation targeted individuals allegedly threatening motorists and other travelers by demanding money and damaging vehicles if demands were not met.
“The Lagos State Rapid Response Squad conducted a midnight enforcement operation along the Lekki–Ajah expressway to apprehend miscreants who have been a nuisance and posed a threat to motorists,” Wahab stated.
Wahab emphasized that the state would employ intelligence-driven strategies to address criminal activities that could jeopardize public safety and hinder traffic flow.
“The RRS will continue to engage in intelligence-led operations and enforcement actions against criminal elements whose activities threaten public safety and disrupt the free movement of people,” he added.
Wahab’s comments came in response to a documentary shared on X, which depicted suspected street hoodlums soliciting money from celebrities. He noted that the government has previously removed street urchins from various areas in Lagos but cautioned that public financial support could encourage their return.
“The continued financial support and patronage from some influencers, celebrities, and members of the public, as seen in this video, inadvertently encourage them to return to the streets,” he said. “This can create a perception that such behavior is a viable means of livelihood.”
While acknowledging the government’s role in maintaining security and order, Wahab urged residents to refrain from actions that could inadvertently contribute to street begging and disorder.
“We therefore urge everyone to avoid activities that may promote lawlessness and environmental nuisance on our roads,” he said.
Wahab emphasized that collaboration between residents and government agencies is essential for effectively addressing this issue and fostering safer and more orderly roadways throughout Lagos.
