Lagos Taskforce dismisses two officials for stealing mobile phones during operation
… nabs 43 suspected drug peddlers
CITIZENS COMPASS – Operatives of #The Lagos State Environmental and Special Offenses (Enforcement) Unit (Taskforce), on Friday, said it has dismissed two of its personnel for stealing two mobile phones during a recent operation to Gowon Estate.
The operation, conducted at a hotel in the Estate known for harbouring drug users and traffickers, resulted in numerous arrests. However, the integrity of the raid was compromised by the actions of two officials whose misconduct was captured on CCTV.
The culprits, Fatai Yusuf (42) and Hammed Garuba (38), were found guilty of stealing mobile phones from the scene. Both individuals, serving as paramilitary officers within the agency, were subjected to a meticulous investigation by the agency’s Disciplinary Committee. Upon confirmation of their guilt, they were summarily dismissed from service and will face immediate prosecution for theft.
CSP Adetayo Akerele, Chairman of the Lagos State Taskforce, strongly denounced their actions, reaffirming the agency’s unwavering commitment to integrity and accountability. He issued a stern admonition to all personnel, emphasizing that any breach of ethical conduct would attract severe consequences.
“The Lagos State Taskforce is guided by principles of discipline, equity, and justice. Any act that compromises the agency’s credibility or erodes public trust will be addressed decisively and without hesitation,” he declared.
In a related development, the first group of 53 drug peddlers and users apprehended during earlier operations have been remanded at the Badagry Correctional Centre after being charged in court.
This week, in a subsequent raid targeting drug hotspots and illicit structures within Gowon Estate, Ipaja, Lagos, the Taskforce arrested 43 additional suspects. The operation led to the demolition of identified drug hideouts and shanties to deter recurring criminal activities in the area. All apprehended individuals have been promptly arraigned, underscoring the agency’s relentless commitment to eradicating drug-related crimes and ensuring public safety.
These actions highlight the Taskforce’s uncompromising stance on unethical conduct and its dedication to maintaining law and order in alignment with the Lagos State THEMES PLUS agenda.
