The Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences (Enforcement) Unit Task Force says it arrested 50 hoodlums and impounded 204 motorcycles.

“Enforcement officers were attacked by hoodlums in collaboration with Okada riders at the Ojodu Berger area, but they were subdued due to the superior tactical and systemic strategies of his men,” a statement on Sunday by the task force’s spokesman Gbadeyan Abdulraheem disclosed.

The task force disclosed that the motorcycles were impounded at Ojodu Berger, Ketu Alapere, Agric, Allen Avenue, Ikeja for plying restricted routes/roads and violating the state traffic laws.

It also stated that the task force unit had commenced a tactical enforcement code-named ‘Operation Kogberegbe’ to ensure a hitch-free festive season.

“’Operation Kogberegbe’ would clamp down on illegal ticketers on the state’s highways, street urchins popularly known as ‘area boys’ and motorcyclists plying restricted routes,” said the statement. “The unit commenced its tactical and strategic enforcement for compliance operations this week.”

It noted that the restricted routes had been published several times to avoid unnecessary excuses of not being aware of the state laws on restriction by Okada riders.

“Some offenders turned deaf ears, and all efforts put in place by the enforcement agency to sensitise, educate and enlighten them to see the dangers of plying on the highways proved abortive,” added the task force. “All the restricted routes will be closely monitored to rid the state of okada riders’ menace, which could lead to needless loss of lives and serious security challenges.”

The task force noted that “this week’s activities are a signal to all recalcitrant” environmental laws offenders who circumvent government’s rules and regulations.

The statement further mentioned that the task force raided some black spots at the Oshodi area, Mile 12 and other trouble spots in the state, arresting hoodlums and seizing their charms and weapons.

“All the suspects will be charged to court for various offences and for disturbing the public peace. The agency will not rest on its oars until all recalcitrant Okada operators toe the line of best practices and the state is free from hoodlums, streets urchins known as area boys,” it said.

(NAN)