The Lagos State Government on Friday arrested 15 street beggars during enforcement operations at Ikosi Ketu and Mile 12.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, one of the Tasks Force officer who spoke with First Daily correspondent said that the order was given from above, adding that the move is to ensure that the road is free from traffic.
“Most of them are really begging, they are using it to pick pocket and commit all kinds of crimes,” When you come here in the morning and afternoon, you will see more than 100 of them,” he added.
Reacting to the incident in a post shared on X, the State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, said that operation is part of the government’s continuous efforts to uphold public order and preserve public spaces from abuse.
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“Fifteen street beggars were apprehended this morning during our enforcement operations at Ikosi Ketu and Mile 12.
“This is part of our ongoing effort to maintain order, ensure safety, and protect public spaces from misuse,” Wahab said.