The Lagos State Task Force has arrested a total of 115 street beggars across various locations as part of the ongoing clean-up enforcement operations aimed at eliminating criminal elements and street urchins popularly known as Omotaku.
The arrests were disclosed on Monday by the Commissioner for the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, through his official X handle.
Wahab revealed that 26 members of the notorious Omotaku group apprehended from different parts of Lagos within the last 24 hours were arraigned before a magistrate court at Oshodi. The suspects pleaded guilty to the charges and were sentenced to three months’ imprisonment in accordance with the law.
“This action reinforces the State Government’s firm stance against activities that threaten public safety, order, and the effective use of public spaces,” Wahab said, adding that enforcement efforts would continue across the state to ensure compliance with existing laws and maintain a safe and orderly environment.
Earlier, the enforcement operation covered several areas, including Fadeyi Bus Stop, Bourdillon, Lekki Phase 1, Ikoyi, Lekki–Ajah Expressway, Animashaun Bus Stop, Akowonjo Road, Egbeda, Costain, Funsho Williams Avenue, Victoria Island, Apongbon, Jibowu, Yaba Phase 1, Lagos Island, Palmgrove, Ojuelegba Road, Surulere, and other adjoining roads on both the Island and Mainland.
Authorities said the suspects were known for harassing motorists and extorting money, particularly when vehicles developed mechanical faults on the road.
Chairman of the Lagos State Task Force, Chief Superintendent of Police Adetayo Akerele, stated that the agency has intensified efforts to suppress Omotaku activities across the Lagos metropolis to ensure public safety.
Akerele disclosed that the arrests were carried out on Thursday, January 8, and January 14, during sustained enforcement operations against street urchins who had previously constituted a nuisance on major roads. He added that a total of 281 suspects were arrested during the exercise and that all had been arraigned in court.
He expressed confidence that Omotaku activities would soon be eradicated across the state and urged Lagos residents, particularly motorists, to report incidents involving street urchins for swift response.
Akerele also warned individuals involved in criminal activities to desist, stressing that crime is not a career.
- Media Report