Lagos arrests 20 street beggars in renewed enforcement drive

The Lagos State Government has arrested 20 street beggars in fresh enforcement operations carried out on Tuesday in the Ikosi Ketu and Mile 12 areas.

Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, said the operation—executed by officials of the Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI)—is part of ongoing efforts to restore order and ensure that public spaces are used responsibly.

Wahab explained that officers conducted the sweep around Ketu, Mile 12, Ikosi Road and the 7UP corridor, targeting activities that obstruct traffic, endanger public safety or violate environmental regulations.

“This operation, which led to the arrest of 20 individuals involved in street begging and related activities, is part of our continuous mop-up exercise aimed at safeguarding the public and curbing environmental infractions,” Wahab said in a post on X.

He noted that those apprehended have been handed over to the appropriate authorities for profiling and further action, adding that the ministry will continue collaborating with social welfare agencies to support rehabilitation where possible.

Wahab urged residents to report locations where street begging persists, stressing that the government remains committed to keeping Lagos clean, orderly and safe.

Tuesday’s operation follows similar enforcement efforts in November, when 15 beggars were arrested in the same areas.