The Lagos State Government has captured 396 beggars in a fresh crackdown on street begging, stating that those seized will be profiled, given appropriate aid, and repatriated to their home states.
Tokunbo Wahab, the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, confirmed this in a statement posted on his X page on Tuesday.
According to Wahab, operatives from the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps, also known as the KAI Corps, arrested the beggars as part of the state’s ongoing campaign to clean up the environment and combat illegal activities.
He said, “A total of 396 beggars were apprehended by operatives of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps as part of the Lagos State government’s sustained efforts to sanitize the state and curb illegal activities.”
The commissioner further stated that the arrested individuals would not only be profiled but would also be given assistance as needed before being returned.
“The apprehended individuals will be profiled, provided with appropriate assistance where necessary, and handed over to the relevant authorities to facilitate their safe return to their respective states,” he stated.
Wahab explained that the initiative is part of the government’s larger efforts to promote public order and environmental sanitation throughout the state.
He said the initiative “reflects the government’s commitment to maintaining public order, protecting the environment, and ensuring a cleaner, safer, and more secure Lagos for all.”
Street begging is prohibited under Lagos State law; it is also an offense to give alms to beggars on major highways.
