The Lagos State Taskforce, led by its Chairman, Adetayo Akerele, has raided major blackspots on Mosley Street, Glover Road and Lateef Jakande Avenue in Ikoyi.

Akerele a Chief Superintendent of Police said the move became imperative after concerned residents blew the whistle on the clustering numbers of unidentifiable individuals, who allegedly converted the areas to safe havens for suspected criminals and miscreants.

Akerele said a discreet investigation was carried out after the complaints which confirmed the intel to be credible, leading to the late night raid.

He disclosed that an illegal petroleum storage facility was discovered during the operation where over 2,000 litres of diesel was discovered in an unsafe location, posing a risk to both occupants of the uncompleted building and neighbours on the same street.

The Chairman stated that the occupants of the building had complete disregard for safety concerns regarding storage of petroleum products which if not properly managed could result in a fire disaster.

Akerele warned street traders who are still in the practice defacing the environment and disposing their waste into the gutters and drainage channels to move their trade to approved markets or risk being arrested.

He also sounded a note of warning to miscreants who lay about and convert streets to religious grounds, social event centers and sports ground to desist forthwith or be prosecuted.

“I urge every well-meaning Lagosian to notify us of any environmental infraction by any individual or groups of individuals in any part of the Metropolis to prevent an environmental mishap. It’s our duty and responsibility to ensure that such infractions are nipped in the bud to maintain sanity and habitability across board,” Akerele added.

A total of 114 suspects were arrested and five were released unconditionally after properly identifying themselves and stating their business.

The remaining suspects would be charged to court and all items confiscated will be forfeited to the State Government through the court.