The Lagos State government has embarked on a week-long raid of street traders, beggars, miscreants and others after several calls from residents of the metropolis.
The Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende, who led the exercise, said the activities of the beggars and miscreants pose security risks to the state.
He disclosed that the raid is being carried out in collaboration with the Lagos State Task Force across various areas of the state.
According to him, the aim is to rid the streets of destitute individuals, miscreants, and children involved in street begging, which he says also constitutes environmental nuisances.
Mr Ogunlende said the operation covered major routes, including Awolowo Way up to Falomo Roundabout, Ikoyi, Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue, Lekki Road, and other parts of the state.
During the raid, 27 individuals, including 15 minors engaged in unlawful street trading and begging, were rescued.
All those apprehended will be transferred to the appropriate government facilities in compliance with relevant laws. The Lagos State Government remains committed to ensuring a safe and secure environment for its residents.
“The week-long operation was prompted by messages and calls from residents across Lagos metropolis, raising security concerns.
“These complaints became so frequent that the relevant MDAs responsible for addressing the issue had to take immediate action. We quickly embarked on this exercise, which has been very successful so far.”
“Since the operation began, we have rescued a significant number of adults and children from the streets of Lagos State. All rescued individuals have been taken to our rehabilitation centres for proper care, rehabilitation, and reintegration into society.
“While efforts are ongoing to reunite the children with their families, the adults among them will undergo empowerment programmes to acquire skills that will enable them to become productive and economically self-reliant,” the Commissioner stated.
This is not the first time the state government has apprehended street traders as it did in 2019.