Lagos Reinforces Security Architecture, Presents 100 Patrol Vehicles at LSSTF 19th Town Hall Meeting

Lagos Reinforces Security Architecture, Presents 100 Patrol Vehicles at LSSTF 19th Town Hall Meeting

The Lagos State Government has unveiled major achievements in crime prevention and security management, as Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to strengthening safety across the state. The governor made this known during the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF) Stakeholders’ Meeting, where he also presented 100 brand new patrol vehicles to security operatives.

Police Record Major Successes in Crime Prevention

Speaking at the event, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police highlighted significant strides made by the command in safeguarding lives and property. He noted that the period under review witnessed a sustained effort in crime prevention, aided by credible intelligence from vigilant residents.

According to him, the command foiled 141 robbery attempts and arrested several suspects in action. Only two kidnapping incidents were reported, with victims rescued swiftly in both cases; however, ransom was paid in one of the operations.

The police also recorded 23 cult-related incidents, leading to the arrest and prosecution of 211 suspects. Massive deployments involving the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), the task force, military units, and other agencies helped prevent robberies and vehicle thefts. A total of 72 stolen vehicles were recovered in November and 76 in June, many of which had been traced to other states and returned to their rightful owners.

Gender-Based Offenses, COVID-19 Violations, and Rule of Law

On sexual and gender-based offenses, the commissioner disclosed that one major incident was recorded during the review period, adding that new investigative technologies have strengthened the command’s capacity to handle such sensitive cases. He also revealed that about 9,200 violators of COVID-19 social distancing directives were arrested and charged.

Reaffirming that Lagos remains governed strictly by the rule of law, he stated that Governor Sanwo-Olu does not interfere in police operations, arrests, or investigations.

Enhanced Security Architecture and Strategic Preparedness

The commissioner described Lagos’ security architecture as robust and inter-agency driven, involving the police, military, federal, and state safety agencies. He said the command’s state of preparedness “remains at the highest level,” with the capacity to respond to major incidents anywhere in the state.

He commended the Lagos State Security Trust Fund for the logistical support that has enabled the command to respond to multiple emergencies simultaneously. He added that 10 new areas requiring divisional headquarters have been identified, and recommendations have been submitted to the LSSTF executive secretary.

Donations and Support to Strengthen Security

The governor used the occasion to rally support for the Security Trust Fund, calling on private and corporate bodies to increase their contributions to strengthen policing infrastructure.

He acknowledged key partners and donors—including Providus Bank, Eko Hotel, and Premier Lotto—before presenting tokens of appreciation to their representatives.

Sanwo-Olu then handed over 100 brand new patrol vehicles to security agencies, noting that improved mobility and logistics are crucial to crime-fighting efforts.

New LSSTF Headquarters Underway

In his closing remarks, the governor thanked all donors, corporate partners, and security stakeholders for their continued support. He announced that the state government will soon commence the construction of a new purpose-built headquarters for the Lagos State Security Trust Fund.

He emphasized that security is a shared responsibility and urged Lagos residents to continue cooperating with law enforcement agencies for the safety and prosperity of the state.