CITIZENS COMPASS— Igbogbo/Baiyeku Local Council Development Area (IBLCDA), Ikorodu Division, Lagos State, yesterday, embarked on security operation against a suspected criminal hideout in the Morekete area of Oreta, resulting in the arrest of several suspects and the recovery of hard drugs, dangerous weapons, and other incriminating items.
The operation which was the brain child of the Council Chairman of IBLCDA, Omo’ba Hammed Olalekan Aroyewun, followed credible intelligence reports linking a cluster of shanties along the Igbogbo-Oreta Road corridor to criminal activities and anti-social behaviour that have generated growing concerns among residents and business owners in the area.
Acting on the intelligence, the Chairman mobilised the Joint Task Force (JTF) for an early morning enforcement operation aimed at dismantling the illegal settlement and flushing out suspected criminal elements believed to be operating from the location.
The operation led to the recovery of substantial quantities of illicit substances, including marijuana, codeine, crystal methamphetamine, and tramadol. Security operatives also recovered a bulletproof vest, an axe, and several items suspected to have been stolen.
Many suspects were arrested during the operation and have since been handed over to the appropriate security authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Speaking after the operation, Chairman Aroyewun expressed concern over the level of criminal activities uncovered at the site, describing the development as a serious threat to public safety and community wellbeing.
“It is unfortunate that a place like this was allowed to evolve into a haven for criminality,” he said. “What we found here today goes beyond mere environmental nuisance. We discovered evidence of drug abuse, criminal gatherings, and activities capable of endangering innocent residents. As an administration, we will not fold our arms while criminal elements turn any part of our community into a base for illegal operations.”
The Chairman noted that residents had repeatedly raised concerns about incidents of robbery, burglary, theft, and other criminal activities around the axis, prompting intensified surveillance and intelligence gathering by the council’s security architecture.
“People must be able to move freely and go about their lawful businesses without fear,” he added. “The success of this operation demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing and the importance of collaboration between government, security agencies, and members of the community.”
Aroyewun commended the Joint Task Force for its professionalism and dedication, stating that the operation further validates the administration’s investments in strengthening grassroots security and intelligence gathering.
He also called on residents to remain vigilant and continue providing useful information to security agencies, assuring them that all intelligence received would be treated with the highest level of confidentiality.
“The fight against crime cannot be left to security agencies alone,” he said. “Community members have a vital role to play. When residents speak up and share information, it becomes easier to identify threats before they escalate. Together, we can build a safer and more secure Igbogbo/Baiyeku.”
The council has commenced efforts to identify those responsible for the structures used as hideouts and has warned that individuals found aiding, harbouring, or facilitating criminal activities will face the full weight of the law.
The administration reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining intelligence-led operations across the LCDA and ensuring that public spaces are protected from criminal exploitation.
Residents and stakeholders have welcomed the operation as a significant step toward improving security within the council area and strengthening public confidence in ongoing efforts to safeguard lives and property.
