Lagos cracks down on street begging, arrests 20 beggars

The Lagos State Government on Tuesday arrested 20 street beggars during enforcement operations in the Ikosi Ketu and Mile 12 areas of the state

According to the state Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, the operation is part of the government’s commitment to restoring order and ensuring that public spaces are used responsibly and safely.

Wahab said the latest enforcement was carried out by KAI operatives around Ketu, Mile 12, Ikosi Road and the 7UP corridor.

“The operation, which resulted in the arrest of twenty individuals engaging in street begging and related activities, is part of our ongoing mop-up exercise designed to curb environmental infractions, safeguard the public, and prevent activities that threaten safety, traffic flow and sanitation,” Wahab said via his X handle.

He added that the ministry will continue to enforce the law while working with social welfare agencies to provide rehabilitation where necessary.

Those apprehended have been transferred to the appropriate authorities for profiling and further necessary action.

“We will continue to enforce environmental laws across the state, and I urge members of the public to support this effort by reporting locations where such activities persist. Our goal is to keep Lagos clean, orderly and safe for everyone,” he said.

The exercise follows recent enforcement efforts aimed at protecting public spaces and addressing the menace of street begging.

Online reports that in November, 15 street beggars were arrested during similar operations in Ikosi Ketu and Mile 12.

culled from punch