The Lagos State Government’s Anti-Open Defecation Squad has arrested 46 male and female criminals during coordinated early-morning operations throughout Lagos Island.
Managing Director of LAWMA, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, revealed this in a statement on Monday in Lagos.
He stated that the arrests took place during regular monitoring exercises in the vicinity of Ebute Ero and surrounding areas, such as Marina, CMS, Obalende, and Adeniji Adele, between February 20 and 22.
“On February 20, 20 offenders were apprehended; 15 additional suspects were arrested on February 21, while 11 more were picked up on February 22, during sustained surveillance operations targeting habitual open defecation black spots,” he said.
In accordance with Lagos State Environmental Laws, he said, all suspects have been moved to the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps headquarters in Oshodi for further investigation and prosecution.
According to Gbadegesin, the enforcement action is a component of the State Government’s continuous efforts to eradicate open defecation, protect public health, and uphold environmental sanitation standards across the metropolis.
He stated that open defecation is against the law and presents major health and environmental hazards, particularly within densely populated commercial corridors.
The LAWMA boss urged residents and business operators to make use of approved public sanitation facilities, and refrain from actions that could undermine the State’s environmental sustainability efforts.
He reiterated the government’s resolve to intensify monitoring and enforcement, warning that offenders would continue to face arrest and prosecution in accordance with the law.
(NAN)
