Lagos Govt detains 396 street beggars in fresh enforcement drive

The Lagos State Government has announced the arrest of 396 individuals involved in street begging during a coordinated enforcement operation aimed at enhancing environmental sanitation, public safety and law enforcement across the state.

The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, disclosed the development in a statement posted on his official X account on Tuesday.

According to Wahab, the operation was carried out by officers of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps, LAGESC, as part of the government’s sustained campaign to improve environmental standards and curb illegal activities in various parts of Lagos.

He explained that all those apprehended would undergo a profiling process to determine their identities and individual circumstances before appropriate assistance is provided where necessary.

The commissioner added that after the profiling exercise, the affected persons would be handed over to the appropriate authorities for safe reintegration and relocation to their respective states of origin.

Wahab said the enforcement exercise underscores the state government’s resolve to maintain public order, promote a cleaner environment and enhance the safety and well-being of residents.

He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to sustaining similar operations as part of broader efforts to preserve environmental cleanliness and improve the quality of life across Lagos State.

Lagos Govt detains 396 street beggars in fresh enforcement drive