Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has commended the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies for what he described as a “massive onslaught” against criminal elements in Lagos and Ogun states.

The governor’s commendation followed the success of Operation Kosaye, a joint security operation that led to the arrest of 88 suspects, the rescue of five kidnapped victims, the killing of four suspected criminals during a gun battle with operatives, and the recovery of arms and ammunition.

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies in safeguarding lives and property.
“We will continue to work with the police and other security agencies to ensure that our state remains safe and secure for residents and visitors,” the governor said.

He also praised the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and the police commands in Lagos and Ogun states for coordinating the operation.

“We appreciate the huge efforts of the police under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police in arresting the suspects, as well as the cooperation of our neighbours in Ogun State. This is the way it should be,” he added.
The operation, codenamed “Kosaye”—meaning “no space” for criminals—forms part of a renewed offensive against kidnapping syndicates, armed robbery gangs and other violent criminal networks operating within the South-West.

As part of the exercise, security operatives have intensified bush-combing operations along the forest boundaries between Lagos and Ogun states, particularly around the J3/J4 axis of Ogbere in Ogun State, to flush out criminal hideouts.

Police authorities said the operation underscores their resolve to ensure there is no safe haven for criminals, especially kidnappers, through sustained intelligence-led policing and coordinated security operations.

The operation has also witnessed an increased security presence across Lagos and Ogun, with police commands displaying recovered weapons and parading arrested suspects as a warning to criminal elements operating within the two states.

Sanwo-Olu urged Lagos residents to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible information on criminal activities and hideouts.

He assured that the state government would continue to strengthen law enforcement through sustained funding and logistical support via the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF).

“We will continue to motivate our law enforcement agencies through the Lagos State Security Trust Fund to enhance their operational effectiveness,” the governor said.