The Lagos State Taskforce has intensified enforcement operations across the metropolis, arresting 281 suspected street urchins, popularly known as Omotaku, during a statewide clean-up exercise aimed at curbing harassment and extortion of motorists.
The Taskforce said the arrests were made within the past week at major roads and traffic corridors where the suspects allegedly loiter to target motorists, especially during vehicle breakdowns. However, some of those arrested denied involvement in criminal activities, saying they were only trying to survive due to a lack of stable livelihoods.
During interrogation, officials discovered that several of the suspects reside under bridges across different parts of Lagos. One suspect, Hassan, said he had been living under the Costain Bridge for three years and claimed he was arrested while offering to help a stranded motorist find a mechanic.
Speaking on the operation, the Chairman of the Lagos State Taskforce, CSP Adetayo Akerele, said the sustained clampdown was designed to flush out criminal elements and restore order on major roads and highways across the state.
Akerele disclosed that all 281 suspects have been charged to court, adding that the exercise covered several areas on the Island and Mainland. He urged residents to report suspicious activities to the Taskforce, warning that criminal acts would not be tolerated as a means of livelihood.
