Lagos Police Activate CCTV Control Centre, Deploy Land and Marine Patrols on Third Mainland Bridge

Lagos Police Activate CCTV Control Centre, Deploy Land and Marine Patrols on Third Mainland Bridge

LAGOS — Security on the Third Mainland Bridge and its surrounding environment has been significantly strengthened as the Lagos State Police Command, in collaboration with the Lagos State Government and the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), deployed land and marine patrol assets and activated a newly commissioned CCTV Monitoring Centre to enhance surveillance and rapid response.

The security reinforcement, which took place on Wednesday, January 14, includes the deployment of Marine Police boats, ground patrol teams, newly donated operational vehicles, and the activation of the Third Mainland Bridge CCTV Control Centre, facilitated by the Federal Ministry of Works.

The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olorundare Jimoh, alongside the Executive Secretary/CEO of the LSSTF, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan, led senior police officers on a tour of the control centre, designated Channel 5, the fifth police surveillance hub in Lagos. The facility was constructed and handed over to the Police by the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi.

Speaking during the tour, CP Jimoh described the initiative as a major boost to preventive policing, public safety and the protection of critical national infrastructure.

“The Third Mainland Bridge carries enormous human and economic traffic daily. Protecting lives, property and the massive investments of the Federal and Lagos State governments is non-negotiable,” he said.

He disclosed that the Command had already commenced full use of the surveillance system, noting that the cameras possess advanced zoom and tracking capabilities covering the bridge, adjoining waterways, and surrounding areas including Ikoyi, Victoria Island and the mainland.

According to the Commissioner, a dedicated Third Mainland Bridge Police Unit has been established, with its Officer Commanding reporting directly to him through the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations. The unit is supported by newly deployed patrol vehicles and a reinforced marine component to ensure 24-hour coverage.

To further boost mobility, the Minister of Works donated two Hilux patrol vehicles, while the LSSTF provided two additional operational vehicles, already deployed to strategic locations at Oworoshoki Bus Stop and the Adekunle axis. The vehicles form part of the Command’s Eko Strike Force initiative for rapid response and visible policing.

Marine security was also strengthened with the donation of patrol boats by the Minister of Works and the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun. CP Jimoh formally launched the boats, noting that continuous patrols of the lagoon and surrounding waterways had commenced, supported by the Submarine Tactical Squad.

The Minister of Works also pledged monthly allowances for officers manning the CCTV centre, alongside maintenance support for the facility, a move CP Jimoh described as vital for sustainability.

The Commissioner warned motorists and members of the public against reckless driving, vandalism and other unlawful acts on or around the bridge, stressing that the technology would enable real-time crime detection, traffic monitoring and accident investigation. He urged motorists to observe the 80km/h speed limit on the bridge.

In his remarks, Dr. Ogunsan commended the Lagos State Police Command for its professionalism and effective deployment of security assets. He also praised the Minister of Works for supporting the security of critical infrastructure in Lagos and thanked Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for prioritising safety and security under the THEMES-plus agenda.

“This is a clear example of strategic collaboration between the Federal Government, Lagos State Government, the Police and the LSSTF. When technology, mobility and trained manpower come together, the impact on security is immediate and sustainable,” Ogunsan said.

CP Jimoh expressed appreciation to Governor Sanwo-Olu, the LSSTF and the Inspector-General of Police for their consistent support, assuring Lagos residents and visitors that land and marine patrols would operate round-the-clock in synergy with the CCTV centre and upgraded communication systems.

Other dignitaries at the tour included Deputy Commissioners of Police, Area Commanders, Tactical Squad Commanders and private security stakeholders.