By ADEGOKE ADEBOLA

The Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Agency (LNSA) has apprehended no fewer than 130 suspected hoodlums during an early morning raid in parts of Lagos.

The operation, which began around 2 a.m. on Friday, covered Victoria Island, Lekki-Ajah and parts of the Coastal Road.

LNSA General Manager, Dr Ifalade Oyekan, who led the operation, disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday.

He said the suspects were screened and presented to the Lagos State Residents Registration Agency (LASSRA) team attached to LNSA.

According to him, the exercise was aimed at identifying and profiling the suspects, while those found culpable would face prosecution.

Oyekan said the operation followed reports of criminal activities targeting motorists, particularly during periods of traffic congestion.

He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to protecting lives and property while ensuring residents and motorists could move freely without fear.

The general manager said the operation formed part of LNSA’s broader community policing strategy, involving residents and other security agencies.

He said the strategy was designed to identify security threats and tackle them promptly across communities.

According to Oyekan, the initiative also aligned with the state government’s efforts to strengthen grassroots security and support the establishment of a state police structure.

He said the proposed structure would enhance intelligence gathering, rapid response and effective policing across communities.

“I commend the supporting agencies for their professionalism and coordination during the operation,” Oyekan said.

He also thanked Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, his deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, and the Commissioner for Special Duties, Mr Gbenga Oyerinde.

He said their continued support had strengthened security operations across the state.

“We will continue similar joint operations at strategic locations across Lagos to deter criminal activities and enhance public safety,” Oyekan said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the operation was supported by the Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) and an armed detachment of the Nigeria Police Force.

The operation was facilitated by the Chief Security Officer to the Lagos State Governor, Mr Kunle Fagbemi. (NAN)

•PHOTO: A cross section of suspected hoodlums at the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Agency (LNSA) headquarters in Oshodi after a raid in Victoria Island, Lekki-Ajah and Coastal roads on Friday