Lagos Police Arrest 147 Suspected Criminals in Major Crackdown, Recover Weapons and Drug Exhibits

The Lagos State Police Command has intensified its campaign against crime with the arrest of 147 suspected criminals during a coordinated operation targeting notorious criminal hideouts across parts of the state.

The operation, carried out under the ongoing Operation KO S’AYE III, focused on identified black spots in the Boolar, Super and Ile Epo areas following persistent complaints from residents about hoodlums allegedly terrorising motorists, commuters and other road users, particularly at night.

Speaking to journalists on Monday, the Command’s spokesperson, SP Abimbola Adebisi, described the exercise as one of the significant achievements recorded over the weekend. According to her, the operation was intelligence-driven and involved a joint team of officers drawn from various formations of the Lagos State Police Command.

The raid commenced in the early hours of Sunday, July 19, 2026, at about 5:30 a.m., with security operatives moving simultaneously into identified criminal hideouts to flush out suspected offenders and restore public confidence in the affected communities.

Weapons, Charms and Suspected Drugs Recovered

During the operation, police recovered several items believed to have been used in criminal activities. The exhibits include:
250 spent cartridge cases
Two live cartridges
22 machetes
Five battle axes
Two knives
One pair of scissors
Assorted charms
One lighter
Substances suspected to be Indian hemp

The police said all 147 suspects are currently in custody while investigations continue to determine each individual’s level of involvement in criminal activities. Authorities assured that anyone found culpable would be charged to court in accordance with the law.

Police Vow to Sustain Operation

Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Tijani Fatai, commended officers who participated in the operation for their professionalism and commitment to duty.

He reaffirmed that Operation KO S’AYE would continue across Lagos State as part of the Command’s strategy to dismantle criminal networks, eliminate safe havens for hoodlums and strengthen public security.

The Commissioner also appealed to residents to support law enforcement by providing timely and credible information that can assist in identifying criminal hideouts and preventing crime before it occurs.