The Lagos State Environmental Taskforce has arrested and detained 27 individuals for their suspected involvement in illegal street begging activities.
Henzodaily reports that the Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, announced the arrest in a statement released via his official X account @tokunbo_wahab on Wednesday.
Wahab indicated that the operation was conducted on Tuesday.
He noted that the task force executed a targeted operation aimed at addressing individuals creating public disturbances throughout the city.
“Twenty-seven persons, including 15 minors, involved in the unlawful act of street begging in the middle of vehicular traffic/hold-ups were apprehended during the operation.
“Major routes raided include Awolowo Way up to Falomo Roundabout, Ikoyi and Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue, along Lekki Road.
“This is in a bid to apprehend and get rid of destitute in the areas,” the Commissioner said.
Wahab further explained that all suspects will be transferred to appropriate government facilities in line with enabling laws.
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Government has sealed several establishments, including churches, hotels, and entertainment venues, over violations of noise pollution regulations and other environmental infractions.
The enforcement action was carried out by the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA).
The affected locations are Shomolu, Oniru Victoria Island, Jakande-Lekki, Badore Ajah, Lekki-Epe Expressway, Sangotedo, Lekki II, Ogombo, and Lekki Phase 1, among others.
The establishments sealed include Celestial Church and Zodiac Lounge. Pixel Park Studio, The Lord’s Chosen Church, Sneakers Suites & Bar, Wimpy Hotel, SBL Hotels, Handsworth Hotel, Mountain of Fire and Miracles Church, West Syde Exclusive Hotel & Suites and Kobis Restaurant.
The Agency, in a statement revealed that these churches, hotels, lounges, and restaurants, were found to be contributing to excessive noise levels and engaging in other practices harmful to the environment.
The statement highlighted the agency’s commitment to a healthy environment, with its General Manager, Dr Tunde Ajayi emphasizing that noise pollution and other environmental violations disrupt the peace and health of communities.
He stated that the action taken demonstrates LASEPA’s zero-tolerance policy and its firm resolve to strictly enforce environmental laws.