Taskforce nabs two suspected hoodlums in Lagos
The Lagos State Environmental and Particular Offences Unit has apprehended two suspected members of the infamous avenue syndicate, Omotaku, on the Oshodi–Agunlejika–Apapa Expressway.
The company’s chairman, Mr Adetayo Akerele, confirmed the arrest in a press release signed by the Taskforce spokesperson, Mr Raheem Gbadeyan, on Tuesday in Lagos.
Akerele mentioned the suspects have been apprehended whereas extorting cash from an unsuspecting motorist whose car developed a mechanical fault on the freeway.
He defined that the arrest adopted a tip-off from a involved group, ICU – To Soul a Soul.
“Appearing on the intelligence, Taskforce operatives swung into motion and caught the duo within the act,” Akerele mentioned.
He mentioned the suspects initially claimed to be a bystander and a income collector, however investigations uncovered them as recognized omotaku operatives.
In keeping with him, the suspects had evaded arrest on a number of events and had lengthy been on the company’s watchlist.
“I obtain a number of calls and on-line complaints from residents about these people, who function deceptively and seem legit,” Akerele mentioned.
He added that one suspect confessed that they focused automobiles conveying items from Apapa Port that broke down alongside the expressway.
“The suspects posed as authorities income collectors, claiming to guard motorists from rival {groups}, earlier than threatening car impoundment,” he mentioned.
Akerele mentioned the second suspect admitted blocking drivers from accessing their automobiles to instil worry and pressure negotiations.
The Taskforce chairman assured residents that the suspects could be prosecuted in accordance with the regulation.
He warned that the arrest ought to function a deterrent to criminals working underneath the guise of income enforcement.
“I urge the general public to report suspicious actions by way of our suggestions channels or the closest police station. There is no such thing as a room for criminality in Lagos,” he mentioned.
Akerele confirmed that the suspects are presently in custody and can be charged to courtroom.
(NAN)