By Peter Omopo
The Lagos State Task Force has arrested 141 street beggars and hoodlums, popularly known as Omotaku, across different parts of the state as part of its ongoing #ZeroToleranceLagos campaign.
The arrests were disclosed in a statement issued on Monday by the Commissioner for the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, and shared on X. According to the statement, the operation underscores the state government’s resolve to clamp down on activities that pose threats to public safety, disrupt order and undermine the proper use of public spaces.
It stated that 115 street beggars were apprehended during enforcement operations carried out across various locations in Lagos.
“In addition, 26 members of the notorious ‘Omotaku’ group, arrested from different parts of Lagos within the last 24 hours, were arraigned before a Magistrate Court in Oshodi,” the statement said.
The commissioner disclosed that the suspects pleaded guilty to the charges against them and were subsequently sentenced to three months’ imprisonment in line with existing laws.
Wahab added that enforcement operations would be sustained across the state to ensure compliance with relevant regulations and to maintain a safe, clean and orderly environment for all residents.
The Lagos State Government has repeatedly warned that it will not tolerate acts capable of threatening security and public order, as it intensifies efforts to improve safety and livability across the metropolis.
