Mobolaji Michael
THE Lagos State Task Force on the Environment has dismissed two of its personnel following their involvement in theft during a recent raid.
The operation, conducted at a hotel in Gowon Estate known for harbouring drug users and traffickers, resulted in numerous arrests. However, the integrity of the raid was compromised by the actions of two officials whose misconduct was captured on CCTV.
According to Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, Director, Press and Public Affairs of the agency, the culprits including Fatai Yusuf (42) and Hammed Garuba (38), were found guilty of stealing mobile phones from the scene. Both individuals, serving as paramilitary officers within the agency, were subjected to a meticulous investigation by the agency’s disciplinary committee. Upon confirmation of their guilt, they were summarily dismissed from service and will face immediate prosecution for theft.
Speaking further, Abdulraheem says CSP Adetayo Akerele, Chairman of the task force, strongly denounced their actions, even as he reaffirmed the agency’s unwavering commitment to integrity and accountability.
Abdulraheem says CSP Akerele further issued a stern admonition to all personnel, emphasizing that any breach of ethical conduct would attract severe consequences.
“The Lagos State Task Force is guided by principles of discipline, equity, and justice. Any act that compromises the agency’s credibility or erodes public trust will be addressed decisively and without hesitation,” he declared.
In a related development, the first group of 53 drug peddlers and users apprehended during earlier operations have been remanded at the Badagry Correctional Centre after being charged in court.
This week, in a subsequent raid targeting drug hotspots and illicit structures within Gowon Estate, Ipaja, Lagos, the task force arrested 43 additional suspects. The operation led to the demolition of identified drug hideouts and shanties to deter recurring criminal activities in the area. “All apprehended individuals have been promptly arraigned, underscoring the agency’s relentless commitment to eradicating drug-related crimes and ensuring public safety.
“These actions highlight the task force’s uncompromising stance on unethical conduct and its dedication to maintaining law and order in alignment with the Lagos State THEMES PLUS agenda”, Abdulraheem pointed out
Eighteen-Eleven Media