Operatives of the Lagos State Environmental Taskforce have apprehended 27 individuals for allegedly engaging in street begging, which violates public order laws.
The operation, conducted on Tuesday, was confirmed by the State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, through a statement shared on his official X account, @tokunbo_wahab, on Wednesday.
According to Wahab, the agency launched a targeted operation aimed at addressing public nuisances across Lagos.
“The task force monitored and carried out a special purpose operation against persons constituting public nuisance across the metropolis,” he stated.
During the sweep, 27 individuals, including 15 minors, were taken into custody for unlawfully soliciting alms in the middle of heavy vehicular traffic, creating obstructions and potential safety hazards.
The raid covered prominent routes such as Awolowo Way extending to Falomo Roundabout in Ikoyi, as well as Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue along the busy Lekki corridor.
“This is in a bid to apprehend and get rid of destitute in the areas,” the commissioner added.
The arrested individuals will reportedly be transferred to appropriate government facilities for rehabilitation or further action in accordance with the state’s legal framework.
This effort is part of the government’s broader initiative to maintain environmental order, address urban destitution, and ensure the safety and smooth flow of traffic within Lagos.
