Lagos Intensifies Coastal Road Security, Arrests 75 in Major Crackdown
The Lagos State Government has announced the arrest of 75 individuals and the recovery of suspected illicit drugs during a targeted enforcement operation along the strategic Coastal Road. The late-night raid, conducted by the Lagos State Environmental Taskforce, underscores ongoing efforts to secure vital infrastructure and combat criminal activities in the area.
Operation Details and Government Statement
Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, confirmed the development via a statement on his official X account on Thursday, February 12, 2026. The operation, which commenced around 10 p.m., focused on identified black spots along the Coastal Road axis as part of a broader initiative to clean up and enhance security. Of the 75 suspects apprehended, 68 were male and 7 were female. Authorities also seized substances believed to be illegal narcotics at the scene.
The commissioner reported a serious incident during the operation, where a taskforce officer, Inspector Omosanjo Mohammed, sustained a violent head injury. Wahab issued a stern warning that assaults on law enforcement officers performing lawful duties are unacceptable and stated all arrested suspects would be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. This firm stance on upholding order is crucial as the state works to ensure the Coastal Road remains safe for daily commuters and residents, much like the focus on security for major global events such as the upcoming Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
Strategic Importance and Ongoing Enforcement
The Coastal Road is a critical economic corridor for Lagos, and its protection is a top priority. The area has been repeatedly flagged as a hotspot for crimes including drug dealing, robbery, and extortion. Security operations aim to prevent disruptions that could undermine the project’s long-term benefits for the state’s economy, a consideration as fundamental as the regulatory oversight seen when the CBN okays use of new financial frameworks.
This crackdown is not an isolated event. In a related recent operation, the same taskforce arrested 26 suspects for extorting money from cart pushers near Orile Under Bridge. Authorities have committed to continuing these enforcement activities across identified flashpoints in Lagos. The government’s resolve to restore order reflects a dedicated, ongoing campaign to safeguard public infrastructure and community well-being, ensuring the city’s development trajectory remains secure and uninterrupted.
