The Lagos State Taskforce on Environment and Miscellaneous Offences stormed Mile 2 Oke along the Oshodi-Apapa expressway yesterday and impounded 2,000 litres of petroleum products from illegal dealers.

The operation, led by the chairman, CSP Adetayo Akerele, was intended to rid the environment of miscreants. Four suspects were arrested, and several items seized during the raid.

The chairman said those arrested would be charged to court, and items confiscated would be forfeited to the state government through the court.
The Guardian learnt that the action was part of the chairman’s plans to protect and preserve the environment.

Recently, the stretch of road along Mile 2 Oke has been plagued by illegal roadside activities that have contributed to severe traffic congestion, an alarming rise in traffic-related robberies, and the degradation of the environment.

The spread of shanties has affected the free flow of traffic on that route and spawned a breeding ground for criminal activities, putting the lives and property of motorists and commuters at risk.

The task force, acting on the directives of the state government and the Lagos Commissioner of Police, Adegoke Fayoade, swiftly moved in to dismantle these illegal structures and clear the area of vendors selling goods by the roadside.

The chairman said: “The roadside vendors who set up tents on the kerbs are also known to deal illegally in petroleum products. Among the most pressing issues addressed was the illegal sale of petrol and diesel by the roadside, where over 2,000 litres of petroleum products were seized.

“This highly dangerous practice poses a significant risk of fire hazards and explosions. We will ensure that such activities that endanger the lives of these illegal merchants and other road users are brought to a complete halt.”

Akerele assured that the task force remains committed to ensuring safety. Adding: “We will continue to monitor the area to prevent the resurgence of illegal activities and to ensure that the roads remain clear for safe and smooth transportation.

“Residents and business owners in the Mile 2 area are urged to cooperate with the authorities and adhere to the environmental laws of the Lagos State government to maintain the safety and serenity that has been recorded over time.”