By Peace Erewunmi

The Lagos State Government has arrested 226 street beggars during a statewide enforcement operation aimed at improving public safety, environmental order, and urban sanitation across the state. The operation was carried out by a joint team of the Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Task Force and the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC).

According to the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, the exercise forms part of the government’s ongoing efforts to address street begging and other environmental nuisances in major public spaces across Lagos.

The commissioner disclosed that the arrested individuals would undergo profiling, documentation, and further assessment in line with established government procedures before appropriate actions are taken.

Officials stated that the operation is not only focused on enforcement but also on maintaining a cleaner, safer, and more organized environment for residents and visitors in the state. The government noted that street begging remains a concern in several commercial and high-traffic areas.

Authorities further revealed that arrangements are being made for the repatriation of some of the affected individuals to their states of origin after the necessary documentation and verification processes have been completed.

The latest operation is part of a broader campaign by the Lagos State Government to tackle activities considered detrimental to public order, including street begging, illegal trading, and other environmental infractions.

Residents have been encouraged to support government efforts by complying with environmental regulations and utilizing approved channels for charitable giving and social support.

As of the time of filing this report, the enforcement exercise remained ongoing, with authorities indicating that similar operations may continue in other parts of the state.