In a major crackdown on extortion and illegal ticketing practices, the Lagos State Taskforce has apprehended 54 individuals suspected of imposing unlawful fines on trucks and commercial vehicles entering the state.
The suspects were arrested in key areas such as Isolo, Mushin, Apapa, Mile 2, and along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway.
The arrests come after reports of trucks carrying goods being waylaid by groups who specialized in issuing illegal tickets, a practice that has caused significant delays in the movement of goods and disrupted business operations within the state.
Chairman of the Lagos State Taskforce, CSP Adetayo Akerele, highlighted the Agency’s commitment to ending these unlawful practices, noting that the crackdown is part of a broader operation to restore order across Lagos.
“This illegal ticketing system has been operating for far too long. We are committed to arresting and prosecuting anyone who imposes unjustified fines on trucks and commercial vehicles. These practices are not only illegal but also detrimental to the state’s economy,” said CSP Akerele.
The operation is part of the Lagos State Taskforce’s mandate to enforce law and order, ensuring that businesses can operate freely without the interference of illegal actors who extort money from truck operators and disrupt logistics.
“It is part of our statutory responsibilities to arrest and prosecute anyone involved in the illegal issuance of fines or tickets within the metropolis,” added Akerele. “We will ensure that anyone involved in this illicit practice is brought to book.”
The Taskforce is urging residents and business owners to report any suspicious activities to the agency and has assured the public that further arrests will be made in a continued effort to rid Lagos of this menace.
The 54 suspects arrested during the operation will be charged in court immediately, signaling the state’s resolve to protect its economy from illegal activities.
Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, the Director of Press and Public Affairs for the Lagos State Taskforce, reaffirmed that the Taskforce will intensify its operations to ensure that such practices are eradicated across the state.
He further encourage residents to report illegal activities or seek further information by contacting the taskforce directly.
