The Lagos State Taskforce has arrested 54 persons allegedly involved in illegal ticketing and extortion of trucks and commercial vehicles entering Lagos State.

These arrests according to the agency were made in Isolo, Mushin, Apapa, Mile 2, and the Lagos-Badagry Expressway.

The stick-wielding suspects as gathered would intercept trucks loaded with goods and request unlawful fines. Failure to oblige would either lead to a delay for the truck driver, causing a traffic hitch as other vehicles behind the truck would have to wait, or the truck drivers would have their side mirrors smashed by these touts.

Speaking on the arrests, the Chairman of the Lagos State Taskforce, CSP Adetayo Akerele, said the enforcement exercises were part of the Agency?s mandate to put an end to such unlawful practices.

?This illegal ticketing system has been operating for far too long. We are committed to arresting and prosecuting anyone who imposes unjustified fines on trucks and commercial vehicles. These practices are not only illegal but also detrimental to the state?s economy,? he said.

He explained that the ongoing operation was part of a wider effort by the Taskforce to restore law and order across Lagos, ensuring that businesses can operate without the threat of extortion by touts and other illegal actors.

?It is part of our statutory responsibilities to arrest and prosecute anyone involved in the illegal issuance of fines and tickets within the Metropolis. Therefore, we will ensure that anyone involved in this illicit practice is brought to book,? Akerele stated.

He urged Lagosians, particularly business owners, to report any suspicious activities to the Agency for prompt arrests, adding that the suspects would be charged to court immediately. (Vanguard)

Update news