No fewer than 17 persons have been apprehended by the Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Enforcement Unit task force for engaging in suspected criminal activities.

This is contained in a statement by the agency’s spokesperson, Abdulraheem Gbadeyan, on Thursday in Lagos.

According to CSP Adetayo Akerele, chairman of the task force, the suspects were apprehended during a raid by the agency in some parts of the state

Mr Akerele explained that the agency carried out the raid in a continued effort to maintain environmental decorum and sanity in the areas.

“The agency carried out the strategic raid

at Gowon Estate, 31 Road, part of Okunola Road, Wole Omooso, Blessjar, Idoani, resulting in the apprehension of 17 suspects.

“During the operation, Taskforce officers uncovered a disturbing cache of illicit substances, including Colorado, Indian hemp, narcotic drugs, and other controlled substances.

“In addition, counterfeit currency in denominations of ₦200 and ₦500 were seized, further underscoring the severity of the criminal activities being perpetuated in the areas,” he said.

He said that the operation reflected the zero-tolerance policy against illegal activities that threaten the peace and security of communities in the state.

He also said that the operation was the third in the series of activities of the agency to completely stamp out, use of illicit substances and hooliganism in the state.

He added that the suspects would face the full weight of the law as investigations continue.

Mr Akerele reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to ridding the state of criminal elements endangering the peace and serenity of the residents.

“Our task force remains committed to fostering a safe and secure environment for all residents,” he said.

He encouraged residents to report any suspicious activities to authorities using their ‘See Something, Say Something’ initiative.”

“We urge the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement agents to ensure a crime-free society,” he added.

(NAN)