LNSA detains 279 suspects in Lagos following intelligence-led operation

The Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Agency (LNSA) has arrested 279 suspected criminals following a large-scale, intelligence-driven raid across the metropolis.

The operation, which ran from late Sunday into Monday, targeted identified blackspots, criminal hideouts and shanties. Suspects were paraded at the LNSA headquarters in Bolade, Oshodi, by the agency’s General Manager, Prince (Dr.) Ifalade Oyekan FISN.

In his remarks, Oyekan disclosed that the exercise relied on information from the agency’s network of community informants and operatives, and warned criminals and others with unlawful intentions to stay away from Lagos or face the full weight of the law.

“The exercise is in line with the mandate of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, to ensure that Lagos retains its position as the safest and most secure state in Nigeria,” Oyekan said.

The 279 suspects comprise 274 males and five females from various parts of the country, the agency said. They were arrested for offences including theft and public nuisance; many had no identification or verifiable addresses. Some of those arrested were reportedly transported into the state in lorries typically used for moving livestock and goods, and were accused of contributing to public nuisance in communities across Lagos.

Oyekan disclosed that two suspects were caught allegedly attempting to steal a submersible pumping machine from a residential apartment. Several others were found with machetes, knives, suspected illicit drugs and other prohibited items.

He said the raids are part of the state government’s efforts under Governor Sanwo-Olu and Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat to keep Lagos safe, and vowed the agency will sustain and expand operations in collaboration with other security bodies.

All suspects have been transferred to the Lagos State Special Offences Mobile Court for further investigation and possible prosecution.