The Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Enforcement Unit, popularly known as the Lagos State Taskforce, has clarified that it does not demand permits from truck drivers for inscribing "TRD" on their vehicles. This statement was made through its Director of Public Affairs, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, following allegations that the agency was involved in such demands. The Taskforce emphasized that its personnel no longer stop vehicles or enforce traffic offences, as per a directive from the state Commissioner of Police.
The Taskforce also announced the arrest of over 30 suspected criminals, including miscreants and drug peddlers, during operations in Obalende, Marina, and other areas of Lagos Island. These arrests were made as part of efforts to clear criminal hideouts and address environmental violations and public nuisances. The operation targeted blackspots with a history of criminal and environmental activities.
According to the Taskforce, the arrested suspects were allegedly involved in disturbing the public peace and engaging in criminal activities. Some were also linked to threats against public infrastructure, including billboards and road signs. The agency recovered substances suspected to be Indian hemp, marijuana, codeine, and Colorado from some of the suspects.
The Lagos State Taskforce, under the leadership of its Chairman, CSP Adetayo Akerele, emphasized that its personnel have been directed to operate within their statutory mandate and respect the rights of the public. The agency urged citizens to be cautious when attributing the actions of uniformed personnel to the Taskforce, noting that several security and law-enforcement agencies operate in Lagos with different mandates and uniforms.
The Taskforce stressed the importance of active citizen participation and sustained enforcement by relevant agencies to achieve lasting environmental sanity across Lagos. CSP Adetayo Akerele reiterated that criminal activities and violations of environmental laws would be prosecuted under the Lagos State Environmental Protection Law, 2017. The suspects are expected to be charged to court in accordance with the law.
The operation is part of the Taskforce's ongoing efforts to maintain order and protect public infrastructure in Lagos. The agency's actions are aimed at ensuring that the state remains safe and free from environmental and criminal activities. The Taskforce continues to work in collaboration with other security agencies to achieve these goals.
In a related development, the Lagos State public hospitals have been handling 40% of patients despite being outnumbered 10:1, according to the Health Commissioner. This highlights the need for continued efforts to address various challenges facing the state, including healthcare and security.
Key points
- The Lagos State Taskforce has denied demanding a permit for 'TRD' vehicle inscriptions.
- The agency arrested 30 suspected miscreants during raids on Lagos Island.
- The Taskforce will prosecute criminal activities and environmental law violations under the Lagos State Environmental Protection Law, 2017.
