The Lagos State Police Command has assured residents that its tactical units have been directed to intensify vehicular patrols across the state to make the streets safer for all road users.

The assurance follows growing complaints of harassment of motorists by street urchins, especially those whose vehicles break down on the road. The hoodlums reportedly demand money before allowing victims to continue their journey after fixing their cars.

The incidents have become increasingly frequent in areas such as Iyana Ipaja, Abule Egba, Oshodi, Ile Epo, Agege, Third Mainland Bridge, and Ojodu Berger, among others.

Reacting to a viral video showing some street urchins harassing a photographer identified as Adebowale, whose car broke down on the highway, the Police Command, through its spokesperson, SP Abimbola Adebisi, said it was aware of the situation and had already taken steps to address it.

Narrating his experience, Adebowale said: “This happened in the Ogolonto area by Justrite supermarket, Ikorodu. My car ran out of fuel, and when I crossed the road to buy fuel in a jerrycan, some area boys said they wouldn’t allow me to pour the fuel unless I settled them.”

According to Adebisi, the Commissioner of Police has ordered all tactical units across Lagos to intensify both foot and vehicular patrols to ensure the safety of residents and commuters.

“The Commissioner of Police has directed all tactical units across the state to intensify both foot and vehicular patrols in order to make the streets safer for all residents. Residents are strongly encouraged to continue cooperating with the police by providing timely and useful information that can assist ongoing security operations,” the command stated.