The Lagos State Police Command has announced a significant victory in its fight against street crime, declaring that gangs of street urchins, including the notorious 'one million boys,' have been drastically reduced across the metropolis.
Police Commissioner Announces Major Security Gains
Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, made this declaration on Thursday, January 8, during an appearance on Channels Television's The Morning Brief program. He attributed this success to intensified and sustained policing efforts across the state.
"The one million boys going out and street urchins, we have eradicated them to the barest in Lagos," CP Jimoh stated confidently. He emphasized that the police have effectively policed the state to a point where "nobody can commit any major crime on the street."
Traffic Robbery Incidents Hit Record Low
The police chief provided concrete examples of the improved security situation. He revealed that incidents of traffic robbery, a major concern for Lagosians, have plummeted.
"Even the issue of traffic robbery has gone to the lowest level as at three to four days now, there has been no serious incident reported throughout Lagos state," Jimoh said.
He further highlighted the successful policing of major events that drew large crowds as proof of their effective strategies. The New Year celebrations, Christmas period, the Eyo Festival, and several large concerts passed without any significant security incidents.
"That's to say all our crime prevention and control strategies and other preventive measures are put into place and working around Lagos," the Commissioner explained.
Sustained Vigilance and Call for Public Cooperation
CP Jimoh assured residents that the police are not resting on their laurels. "We are not resting and want to ensure that everywhere is safe," he affirmed, noting that the command remains vigilant.
He credited the operational success to robust support from the Inspector General of Police, the Ministry of Police Affairs, and the Lagos State Government, which has ensured smooth patrol logistics. "So it's unheard of that somebody wants a police assistant and you will be asking for fuel," Jimoh noted, indicating improved resource availability.
The Commissioner ended with a crucial call to action for the public. He urged Lagos residents to promptly report any criminal activities or concerns. He directed that complaints should first be made to the senior officers in charge.
"They should report to the most senior officer in that department which is the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) and Area Commander," he advised. He also provided two dedicated phone numbers for incident reporting: 08032569029 and 07019852222.
