CITIZENS COMPASS – In a targeted operation to enhance safety, security of lives,properties and environmental decorum, the Lagos State Taskforce Environmental and Special Offenses (Taskforce) Unit (Enforcement) has apprehended 53 suspected drug peddlers, addicts, street urchins, illegal street traders and people of shady business dealings.
Several mixtures of different illicit drugs and narcotics suspected.to be Indian hemp, Codeine Syrub, colorado and several other items not worthy of human consumption were impounded.
The Chairman of the Agency, CSP Adetayo Akerele, emphasized that this operation marks a critical step toward securing relief for residents around Gowon Estate, ipaja, Egbeda, Idimu and its environs who have been affected by the activities of these suspected criminals. Residents have endured trauma and safety risks due to the presence of these unauthorized and waywards squatters.
“The Lagos State Taskforce remains fully committed to safeguarding all residents, and we will continue our efforts to rid the metropolis of individuals who prey on law-abiding citizens,” stated CSP Akerele.
The Chairman also reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to systematically monitoring other criminal hideouts and blackspots and abandoned buildings and properties that are not in active use. This vigilance is intended to deter people of sinister motives to desist or relocate out of the State.
“These arrests underscore our determination to maintain a safe, serene and conducive environment for all,” he added. “We will not rest until every individual involved in these illegal practices is held accountable.
The 53 suspects apprehended for unlawfully engaging in selling and smoking of narcotics, drug peddling and street trading will be promptly charged in court.”
Alhaji Muraina Ajao popularly known as Famous, a resident in the area commended the efforts of the Taskforce in ridding the area of all these illegal and unwanted guests, saying that.passing through Gowon Estate is now a safe haven to his resident, for the first time in the last seven years.
The Lagos State Taskforce encourages residents to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities through the ‘See Something, Say Something’ initiative, as public cooperation remains vital to keeping the city safe, peaceful, and livable.
