Lagos Taskforce Arrests 281 Suspected Street Urchins in Week-Long Clean-Up Drive

The Lagos State Taskforce has arrested 281 individuals described as street urchins, popularly known as Omotaku, during a week-long enforcement operation across major roads and highways.

Authorities say the suspects were apprehended for allegedly harassing motorists and extorting money, particularly when vehicles broke down.

The operation, which ran from January 8 through January 14, targeted hotspots across both the Island and Mainland, including Lekki Phase 1, Ikoyi, Surulere, Victoria Island, and Yaba. Officials explained that these areas had become recurring points of nuisance, with groups loitering at traffic intersections and obstructing drivers.

Taskforce Chairman CSP Adetayo Akerele said the arrests were part of a broader effort to suppress the activities of Omotaku, who are accused of terrorizing drivers under the guise of offering assistance. He expressed confidence that sustained enforcement would eradicate the menace and create safer conditions for residents and commuters. The agency urged the public to report incidents promptly via emergency hotlines 09137555111 and 09138555111.

While some of those arrested denied criminal intent, claiming they were seeking livelihood amid economic hardship and often lived under bridges, officials stressed that their activities violated state transport and environmental laws. All suspects have since been arraigned in court.

The crackdown forms part of Lagos State’s wider clean-up campaign aimed at tackling criminal elements, reducing traffic disruptions, and improving public safety across the city’s highways.