The Lagos State Government has ramped up efforts to stop street criminals from intimidating and stealing from drivers on busy state routes. Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, confirmed that the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) performed a surprise night operation on the Lekki-Ajah Expressway to combat this issue.
This initiative targeted groups responsible for threatening commuters, demanding illegal payments, and vandalizing vehicles when drivers refused to comply. Wahab emphasized that the state remains committed to using intelligence-based strategies to clear these criminal elements and protect public safety.
The crackdown follows reports of street urchins harassing public figures and regular motorists. While the government frequently removes these individuals from various areas, Wahab pointed out that ongoing financial support from the public, including some celebrities and influencers, motivates these groups to stay on the roads. He cautioned that such patronage creates a culture of entitlement and makes street harassment a profitable pursuit.
Ultimately, the commissioner requested that residents stop behaviors that promote lawlessness and street begging. He maintained that public partnership is vital for the government to secure the roads effectively.
