Lagos CP pledges aggressive action against crime, parades 98 suspects

By Sodiq Adelakun

The newly appointed Commissioner of Police for Lagos State, Ishola Olanrewaju, has declared a firm stance against crime, vowing to “smoke out” criminals rather than simply asking them to leave.

This bold assertion came during his inaugural media briefing on Wednesday at the police command’s headquarters in Ikeja, where he paraded 98 suspected criminals.

Olanrewaju emphasised a proactive approach to law enforcement, outlining plans to dismantle criminal networks throughout Lagos.

He stated, “Whoever enters a bus must know the bus they are boarding,” as he introduced a partnership with road transport unions aimed at combating “one-chance” robberies by ensuring that all commercial buses are tagged and easily identifiable.

Detailing recent police operations, Olanrewaju noted significant successes against various criminal activities, including armed robbery, cultism, kidnapping, and drug trafficking.

The operations led to substantial seizures, which included weapons, narcotics, stolen goods, firearms, ammunition, and $402 in cash, as well as 39 bags of stolen rice.

Having officially taken office on September 18, Olanrewaju, the 40th Commissioner of Police in Lagos, expressed his commitment to enhancing public safety and maintaining order in the bustling metropolis.