In a midnight operation led by officials of the Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Task Force, a total of 62 homeless persons were arrested from various parts of the city in a renewed effort to enforce street sanity and public order.
The raid, which took place between the hours of 12 a.m. and 3 a.m., targeted hotspots including Ojuelegba, CMS, Ikeja Under-Bridge, and Oshodi, where dozens of men, women, and youths were found sleeping on sidewalks, road medians, and motor parks.
According to Task Force Chairman, CSP Shola Jejeloye, the operation is part of a wider initiative to curb street begging, criminal hideouts, and the growing concern over the safety of commuters and residents.
“We understand the situation of many of these individuals, but we must also prioritize public safety and orderliness in our city,” he stated.
While some of the individuals claimed they were victims of hardship and economic displacement, others allegedly had no identification or explanation for their presence in the areas where they were found.
The arrested persons have been taken to a temporary shelter for profiling and possible rehabilitation, pending further investigation. Authorities have assured that humanitarian considerations will guide the next steps, especially for vulnerable individuals.
Human rights groups and social welfare advocates have called for more sustainable solutions, urging the state government to increase investment in affordable housing, mental health services, and job creation.
This latest crackdown has reignited debate about how cities handle homelessness and urban poverty, with critics warning against policies that criminalize survival.
Video Midnight Sweep: 62 Homeless Persons Arrested in Lagos Street Crackdownhttps://t.co/GeBvJmBnYJ pic.twitter.com/9Y5DXracPE
— Naijausers™ (@Naijausers_) May 23, 2025
0 Comments