Lagos Environmental Task Force arrests 27 for street begging

By Sodiq Adelakun

The Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunboh Wahab, confirmed the arrest of 27 individuals involved in street begging during an operation by the state’s Environmental Task Force. The operation took place on Tuesday.

In a post shared on his X, formerly Twitter, account (@tokunbo_wahab), Mr Wahab revealed that the task force monitored and carried out a special operation targeting public nuisances across the city. Among those arrested were 15 minors who were engaged in the unlawful act of street begging, often in the midst of vehicular traffic and traffic jams. The operation covered major areas, including Awolowo Way up to Falomo Roundabout, Ikoyi, and Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue along Lekki Road.

Wahab stated, “The task force’s goal is to apprehend and remove destitutes from the streets, and this operation was carried out to restore order and ensure safety in these busy areas.”

The arrested individuals will be transferred to appropriate government facilities in line with the state’s laws.