The Oyo State Government, through the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, has arrested about 19 illegal scavengers within Ibadan metropolis.
Commissioner for the Ministry, Ademola Aderinto, disclosed this during an interview held in his office on Wednesday.
Aderinto stated that the arrests followed a 24-hour surveillance operation to curb illegal scavenging activities, popularly known as “BOLA,” in order to prevent infrastructure vandalism, enhance public safety, and promote environmental sustainability across the State.
He added that the violators have been prosecuted and fined accordingly based on their respective offences.
According to the commissioner, the suspects are liable to penalties including fines ranging from N20,000 to N50,000, community service, and possible jail terms, depending on the severity of the offence.
Aderinto reaffirmed that the Ministry is legally obligated to keep Oyo State clean and free from activities that endanger public health and the environment, pointing out that unregulated scavenging has led to environmental deterioration and insecurity in some areas of the state.
In accordance with current environmental regulations, he underlined that open scavenging is forbidden in Oyo State and promised that the government will not back down in its determination to identify, arrest, and prosecute violators.
He, however, urged residents to cooperate with government efforts and desist from obstructing law enforcement officers in the discharge of their lawful duties.
- Media Report