Nineteen suspects have been arrested in a Lagos task force operation that uncovered a disturbing stash of narcotics, including Colorado, Indian hemp, and other hard substances hidden in vehicles at Gowon Estate and surrounding black spots.
The Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Task Force made the arrests on yesterday, during an early morning raid targeting drug trafficking hubs.
The agency uncovered multiple bags of illicit drugs in car boots, signalling a deeper criminal network operating in the area.
According to CSP Adetayo Akerele, Chairman of the Task Force, the operation was part of an ongoing strategy to sanitise the city and dismantle criminal infrastructure threatening Lagos residents.
“The operation was carried out in a continued effort to maintain environmental decorum and public order across the metropolis,” Akerele stated in a press release issued by the agency’s Director of Press and Public Affairs, Mr Abdulraheem Gbadeyan.
He revealed that controlled substances were discovered not just on individuals, but stockpiled in the boots of parked vehicles evidence pointing to more organised drug trafficking than previously suspected.
Reaffirming a zero-tolerance approach to drug trafficking and related crimes, Akerele declared: “This operation reflects our zero tolerance policy against illegal activities that threaten the peace and security of the state.”
He confirmed that all 19 suspects are in custody and will be prosecuted accordingly.
He said, “All the suspects will face the full weight of the law as investigations continue.
“Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to authorities, using our ‘See Something, Say Something’ initiative.
Akerele urged Lagos residents to actively participate in maintaining security.
He added that collaboration between the public and law enforcement is critical in achieving lasting results in crime prevention.
This operation marks the fifth in a targeted crackdown led by the task force to dismantle drug-related criminal syndicates in the area.
“The task force remains committed to fostering a safe and secure environment for all citizens,” he added.
