The Lagos State Taskforce on Environment and Special Offences has taken action against illegal street trading and environmental pollution in Ikeja.
News About Nigeria reports that the agency’s spokesperson, Mr Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, confirmed the arrests to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday.
According to the agency’s spokesperson, 40 people were arrested for engaging in nighttime street trading and restaurant operations, causing traffic congestion and environmental hazards.
“They have converted streets to mini- markets and restaurants, thereby causing serious human/vehicular traffic obstructions and serious environmental pollution along those routes and adjoining streets,” he said.
The suspects had set up makeshift shops and barricades on Alade Avenue, Orishe and Johnson Streets, obstructing traffic and flouting environmental laws.
The taskforce, led by CSP Adetayo Akerele, conducted a two-day raid to address the issue.
The spokesperson said that the operation will continue to ensure the well-being of citizens who have been affected by the menace of street trading.
He said the illegal activities were not only causing environmental pollution but also providing a haven for criminal elements and drug peddling.
He said, “The raid will be a continuous exercise as a step made in the interest of the citizenry who have longed for solutions to the menace of street trading.
“Some of these locations serve as safe haven for suspected criminals and they enjoy the proceeds of their criminal activities there.
“The flooding experienced in some parts of the state is also as a result of improper disposal of waste that end up clogging the drainage channels.
“They also sell drugs indiscriminately there, which is counter-productive to the society,” he further said.
The taskforce appealed to remaining street traders and vendors to relocate to designated markets and vacate the streets and inner roads.
The agency added that it aims to maintain a safe and clean environment, free from traffic obstructions and pollution.
