CITIZENS COMPASS–Operatives of the Lagos State Environmental and Special Offenses (Enforcement) Unit (Taskforce), have apprehended 54 and fenders for issuing illegal tickets and extorting truck drivers across the State.
The operation was a major crackdown on extortion and illegal ticketing practices.
Spokesperson for the Taskforce, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, in a statement on Monday, said the suspects were arrested in key areas such as Isolo, Mushin, Apapa, Mile 2, and along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway.
He said the arrests came after reports of trucks carrying goods were being waylaid by groups who specialised in issuing illegal tickets, a practice that has caused significant delays in the movement of goods and disrupted business operations within the state.
Speaking about the operation, chairman of the Taskforce, CSP Adetayo Akerele, enumerated the Agency’s commitment to ending these unlawful practices.
He noted that the crackdown was part of a broader operation to restore order across Lagos.
He said, “This illegal ticketing system has been operating for far too long. We are committed to arresting and prosecuting anyone who imposes unjustified fines on trucks and commercial vehicles. These practices are not only illegal but also detrimental to the state’s economy,”
“It is part of our statutory responsibilities to arrest and prosecute anyone involved in the illegal issuance of fines or tickets within the metropolis,” added Akerele. “We will ensure that anyone involved in this illicit practice is brought to book.”
The Taskforce is urging residents and business owners to report any suspicious activities to the agency and has assured the public that further arrests will be made in a continued effort to rid Lagos of this menace.
“The 54 suspects arrested during the operation will be charged in court immediately, signaling the state’s resolve to protect its economy from illegal activities.
The spokesperson reaffirmed that the Taskforce will intensify its operations to ensure that such practices are eradicated across the state.
He further encouraged residents to report illegal activities or seek further information by contacting the taskforce directly.
