The Lagos State Government has apprehended three suspected street urchins, commonly known as “Omotaku,” over allegations of harassing motorists in different parts of the state.
The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, disclosed the development in a post shared on his verified X handle on Thursday.
The group, widely referred to as “Omotaku,” is known for preying on drivers, especially those whose vehicles develop faults on major highways across Lagos.
The term “Omotaku” originates from the Yoruba language and describes forceful extortion or taking items from individuals by any means.
Providing details of the incidents, Wahab said, “Yesterday (Wednesday), two separate incidents involving suspected ‘Omotaku’ touts were recorded at different locations across the state.
“At Marwa Bus Stop in Lekki, a truck driver whose vehicle had broken down was confronted and threatened by individuals who demanded his phone and money.
“Similarly, another incident occurred at Palmgrove along Ikorodu Road, where suspected touts attempted to harass road users.
“In both instances, operatives of the Lagos State Task Force swiftly intervened and apprehended the suspects. They will be processed in accordance with the law.
“We remain committed to keeping our roads safe, protecting motorists, and eliminating all forms of harassment and intimidation across Lagos. Enforcement operations will continue across identified hotspots to maintain order and security.”
The arrests are part of ongoing efforts to tackle the activities of such groups, with more than 25 suspected members reportedly arrested in the Lekki area in March.
As part of measures to curb the menace, the task force recently introduced a specialised anti-crime patrol unit to address criminal activities and environmental violations.
The chairman of the agency, CSP Adetayo Akerele, inaugurated the unit on Tuesday at the task force headquarters in Bolade, Oshodi.
According to him, the team is designed to act as a rapid response unit to combat various offences.
Akerele said, “The unit will operate as a rapid response team with the mandate to arrest and prosecute offenders involved in drug peddling, street urchinism, the activities of ‘area boys,’ also known as ‘Omotaku,’ raids on criminal hideouts, environmental offences such as indiscriminate waste disposal, attacks on government officials on duty, quackery, and ‘one-chance’ robbery.”