The Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Agency (LNSA) has intensified its war against crime with a massive statewide operation that led to the arrest of 279 suspected criminals, hoodlums, and miscreants. The raid targeted identified blackspots, criminal hideouts, and shanties across the metropolis.
Parade of Suspects
Speaking at the Agency’s Headquarters in Bolade, Oshodi, the General Manager, Prince (Dr.) Ifalade Oyekan FISN, warned criminals and those with unlawful intentions to stay away from Lagos State or face the full weight of the law. The operation, conducted from late Sunday through Monday, was part of the State Government’s sustained efforts to rid Lagos of criminal elements and maintain law and order.
Intelligence-Driven Operation
Oyekan explained that the exercise was intelligence-driven, leveraging the Agency’s extensive network of community informants and operatives to identify black spots and criminal hideouts. A total of 279 suspects—274 males and five females from different parts of the country—were arrested for various offences, including theft, public nuisance, and other criminal activities. Many suspects had no means of identification and could not provide verifiable residential addresses.
Public Nuisance Concerns
Some of those arrested for constituting a public nuisance were individuals who allegedly entered Lagos aboard lorries and other vehicles used to transport livestock and goods. Oyekan emphasised that while every Nigerian has the constitutional right to reside and move freely within the country, Lagos State will not tolerate criminality or activities that undermine peace and security.
“The exercise is in line with the mandate of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his Deputy Dr. Obafemi Hamzat to ensure that Lagos retains its position as the safest and most secure state in Nigeria despite its large and growing population. Through our intelligence network and collaboration with sister security agencies, we will continue to ensure that law-abiding residents feel the presence of government while criminals find no hiding place in Lagos,” he said.
Seizures and Prosecution
The LNSA boss disclosed that two suspects were apprehended while allegedly attempting to steal a submersible pumping machine from a residential apartment. Several others were found in possession of dangerous weapons, including machetes and knives, as well as suspected illicit drugs and other prohibited items. Reiterating the Agency’s commitment to public safety, Oyekan stated that the operation would be sustained and expanded in collaboration with relevant security and law enforcement agencies. Following the raid, all suspects were transferred to the Lagos State Special Offences Mobile Court for further investigation and possible prosecution.
