Lagos Taskforce Arrests Six Over Attacks on Stranded Motorists

The Lagos State Environmental Taskforce has arrested six suspected hoodlums for allegedly attacking and harassing motorists across major roads in the state, particularly those whose vehicles developed faults while in transit.

The arrest followed a coordinated enforcement operation carried out on Friday morning as part of the state government’s renewed crackdown on street crime and illegal activities threatening public safety.

Confirming the development in a statement, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, said the operation commenced at about 9:30 a.m. and was targeted at dismantling criminal groups that prey on unsuspecting motorists along major highways.

According to Wahab, the suspects were apprehended along the Maryland axis and other parts of the Ikorodu Road corridor, an area that has recently recorded increased reports of harassment, intimidation and theft involving stranded motorists.

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He explained that the arrested individuals allegedly operate in groups, monitoring vehicles that break down in traffic or develop mechanical issues, before swooping in on drivers to extort money, vandalise vehicles or physically assault victims.

“The Lagos State Government will not tolerate any form of criminality that puts the lives of residents and commuters at risk. These hoodlums take advantage of vulnerable motorists and we are determined to put an end to such activities,” Wahab said.

The commissioner noted that the enforcement exercise was part of a continuous effort to rid Lagos roads of criminal elements and ensure a safe environment for residents, businesses and road users.

He added that all the suspects have been taken into custody and would be charged to court without delay after preliminary investigations are concluded.
Wahab reiterated the government’s commitment to its Zero Tolerance Lagos policy on street violence, warning that the Taskforce would sustain similar operations across identified hotspots in the state.

He stressed that security agencies would continue to collaborate to ensure that criminal activities, especially those targeting motorists and commuters, are promptly addressed.

Residents, motorists and commercial drivers were advised to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements or criminal activities to law enforcement agencies to support the state’s safety initiatives.
Some motorists who spoke to journalists welcomed the arrests, describing them as a relief, especially for drivers who frequently ply the Ikorodu Road axis.

A commercial bus driver, who identified himself as Kunle, said hoodlums often exploit traffic congestion and vehicle breakdowns to intimidate drivers and demand money.

“They usually surround your vehicle and threaten you. If you refuse to give them money, they damage your vehicle or attack you. This arrest is a good development,” he said.

The Lagos State Government assured residents that enforcement operations would continue across the state until criminal networks operating on the roads are completely dismantled.