Key Points
- Fifteen beggars were taken into custody this morning. The operation aimed to restore order on busy streets.
- Officials said social welfare help will be available. Rehabilitation and shelter options will follow a quick assessment.
- The Commissioner posted details on his official X account. He said Lagos must stay safe clean and orderly.
Fifteen street beggars were arrested in Ikosi Ketu and Mile 12. Members of the Lagos environmental taskforce led the morning enforcement operation.
The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources Tokunbo Wahab posted the update.
He said the raid aimed to protect public spaces and promote safety.
The arrests happened during sweeps at Ikosi Ketu and Mile 12 markets. Officers removed people who begged in busy roadside areas and bus stops. See our recent Lagos air pollution report for background and context.
The Commissioner said social welfare agencies will screen those taken into custody. Officials promised medical checks and referrals for vulnerable people as needed.
How the sweep unfolded
Taskforce teams moved through market corridors before dawn to check complaints.
They detained people who refused officers and who occupied public walkways.
Human rights groups and local residents watched the operation closely online. Some voiced concern about arrests without immediate shelter or legal aid.
Market traders said the sweep disrupted early business and selling routines. Some traders asked for clearer notice and time for preparation.
The state agency said it will coordinate with NGOs and shelters. Officials invited community leaders to help manage follow up support.
See our official responses and policing in Lagos for details on how authorities frame such actions. The linked stories explain how officials frame public order responses.
Welfare plan and next steps
Social workers will assess each person within twenty four hours. The Commissioner said rehabilitation and shelter will be arranged where needed.
The Lagos law prohibits aggressive street begging in public spaces. Officers cited existing bylaws when making arrests during the sweep.
Local civil society groups asked for clear rehabilitation timelines from officials. They offered to help with shelter places and counselling services.
The taskforce said arrests were preventive and linked to public safety concerns. Anyone charged will see the courts and social agencies will assist.
“Lagos must remain safe clean and orderly for all who live and work here,” he said. He added that enforcement will be paired with social support for those needing help.
The social welfare agency will review each case before release decisions. Any person needing care will be sent to partner shelters and clinics.
Arrestees will appear before a magistrate within the required timelines. Legal aid groups may offer guidance during the hearing process.
Lagos officials said they will continue visible patrols to deter street begging. The state said it aims to keep public spaces safe for everyone
