Operatives of the Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Enforcement Unit (Taskforce) have arrested 53 suspects during a raid on a criminal hideout in the Gowon Estate area of Lagos State.
The Chairman of the Taskforce, CSP Adetayo Akerele, disclosed this in a statement signed by the agency’s Director of Press and Public Affairs, Mr. Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, on Tuesday.
According to Akerele, the operation aimed to enhance public safety and restore order in the area.
“The agency apprehended drug peddlers, addicts, miscreants, street urchins, illegal street traders, and individuals engaged in shady dealings,” he said.
The raid led to the seizure of various illicit drugs, including Indian hemp, codeine syrup, and Colorado, among others. Akerele emphasized that these substances pose significant health risks and are unfit for human consumption.
The chairman highlighted the operation as a response to complaints from residents in Gowon Estate, Ipaja, Egbeda, and Idimu, who have suffered from the activities of criminal elements in their neighborhoods.
“Residents have endured trauma and safety risks due to the presence of these unauthorized squatters and wayward individuals,” he said.
Akerele reaffirmed the Taskforce’s commitment to conducting systematic surveillance of criminal hideouts, black spots, and abandoned properties across the state to deter illegal activities.
“These arrests underscore our determination to maintain a safe, serene, and conducive environment for all. We will not rest until every individual involved in these illegal practices is held accountable,” he added.
The suspects, arrested for offenses ranging from drug peddling and smoking narcotics to illegal street trading, are set to face charges in court.
Akerele urged residents to support security efforts by reporting suspicious activities through the “See Something, Say Something” initiative.
“Public cooperation is vital to keeping Lagos safe, peaceful, and livable,” he said.
The Taskforce assured the public of its unwavering resolve to rid the state of individuals who pose a threat to law-abiding citizens.
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