Lagos State Government has confirmed the release of the four pupils and teachers of the Lagos State Model College (Senior and Junior) Igbonla in Epe who were kidnapped by suspected ex-Ijaw militants on October 6, 2016, assuring that the Government would spare nothing until it rids the State of criminal elements.

The Government, according to Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Steve Ayorinde, said the children have undergone medical check-up after which they were reunited with their families.

Ayorinde, while restating government’s determination to protect lives and property, however urged residents to be more vigilant, security conscious and report all suspected persons and objects seen within their neighbourhood to the appropriate security agencies.

According to him, the determination of the government to ensure 24-hour security of the State is evident in the huge investment in the equipment and welfare of security agencies, especially the police.

The Commissioner, however, said government had taken adequate steps to stem the tide of kidnapping in the State, noting that in line with the directive of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, plans have been concluded to commence the demolition of illegal structures erected across the state waterfronts and creeks.

He said government had also begun steps to boost community policing with the recent announcement by the Governor that at least five thousand neighbourhood watchers would soon be recruited to improve surveillance across the state, especially at the rural areas.