The Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Unit (Task Force) has impounded 278 commercial motorcycles during a weeklong enforcement operation targeting operators violating the state’s ban on commercial motorcycle activities on highways and other restricted routes.
Chairman of the Task Force, CSP Adetayo Akerele, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Sunday by the agency’s spokesperson, Abdulraheem Gbadeyan.
Akerele said the operation was conducted in line with the Lagos State Government’s directive enforcing restrictions on commercial motorcycle operations under the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law, 2018.
According to him, the exercise was aimed at enhancing public safety, protecting lives and property, and curbing criminal activities often associated with the unlawful use of motorcycles in restricted areas.
He noted that the enforcement drive also reflected the renewed commitment of the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, Fatai Tijani, to maintaining security and public order across the state.
The chairman explained that the latest operation followed a previous clampdown carried out weeks earlier, stressing that the agency would continue to intensify enforcement against violators of traffic, environmental and security regulations.
Areas covered during the operation included Ikorodu, Agric Bus Stop, Festac First Gate, Mazamaza, Iyana School, Iyana-Iba, Idimu Road, Egbeda, Kola Bus Stop, Iyana Ipaja, Ikotun Roundabout, Ajaiye in Ojokoro and Berger Bus Stop.
Akerele said several commercial motorcycle operators were apprehended while illegally operating on highways and routes prohibited by law.
He disclosed that some of the riders were caught transporting illicit substances and hazardous materials, including petroleum products and cooking gas, while others were found conveying school children and toddlers in conditions considered unsafe on major roads.
According to him, the enforcement exercise has helped restore order and improve compliance with the state’s transport regulations in affected locations.
He added that all motorcycles seized during the operation would be processed for forfeiture through the courts in accordance with provisions of the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law, 2018.
Reaffirming the agency’s determination to sustain the crackdown, Akerele warned that the government would not relent in its efforts to enforce compliance and tackle activities that threaten public safety.
“We will not be cowed or fold our arms and allow people of criminal intent to overrun Lagos or surrender to their illegalities,” he said.
