In a decisive move to restore order and security to the streets of Lagos, the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development, in collaboration with the Lagos State Task Force, has launched a one-week operation aimed at curbing the activities of beggars, miscreants, and other social vices across the state. The operation, which began this week, is a response to growing public concerns over the rising number of street beggars, miscreants, and children involved in street begging, which have been identified as both environmental nuisances and security risks.
The initiative was formally kicked off by Mobolaji Ogunlende, the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, who addressed the media during the flag-off ceremony. Ogunlende emphasized that the operation was a direct response to frequent complaints from residents across the city, raising alarms over the safety implications of the increasing number of destitute individuals on the streets.
“We have received numerous messages and calls from concerned citizens who have expressed their worries about the security risks posed by these individuals. These complaints have been so frequent that the relevant authorities were compelled to take swift action,” Ogunlende said.
The operation, which spans key areas of the city including Awolowo Way, Falomo Roundabout, Ikoyi, Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue, and Lekki Road, aims to clear the streets of people engaged in begging and other criminal activities. Since its launch, the operation has seen the rescue of a significant number of both adults and children from the streets. The rescued individuals have been taken to designated rehabilitation centers, where they will receive proper care, rehabilitation, and support to reintegrate into society.
“All those rescued are being taken to our rehabilitation centers for care and empowerment. The children will be reunited with their families, while the adults will undergo training programs to equip them with skills that will help them become economically self-reliant and productive members of society,” Ogunlende explained.
The operation is part of a broader effort by the Lagos State government to address the challenges of urban poverty, crime, and the safety of its citizens. With a focus on long-term solutions, the Ministry of Youth and Social Development is committed to ensuring that those affected by street begging and social vices have access to opportunities for a better future.
As the operation continues, residents are urged to report any suspicious activities or individuals to the appropriate authorities, to ensure the streets of Lagos are safe and free from social disturbances.
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