Police Arrest 15 Suspects for Illegal Trading on Lagos–Abeokuta Expressway

Police Arrest 15 Suspects for Illegal Trading on Lagos–Abeokuta Expressway

The Ogun State Police Command has arrested 15 suspects for obstructing public roads and violating environmental regulations along the busy Lagos–Abeokuta Expressway, authorities confirmed on Friday. The arrests were made during a targeted enforcement operation aimed at restoring traffic flow and maintaining public order in the state.

According to DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, Public Relations Officer of the command, the operation, named “No Traffic Gridlock”, was carried out in the Ifo axis, focusing on high-traffic points such as Abekoko and Old Bank where illegal roadside trading and makeshift stalls had consistently disrupted motorists.

“The exercise targeted traders’ illegal display of goods and structures obstructing traffic and violating environmental laws,” DSP Babaseyi said. He added that officers from the Ifo Division deployed to the areas removed shanties, wooden planks, and wares, using over six trucks to clear the highway.

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The suspects, who allegedly ignored multiple warnings to vacate the road, have been taken into custody and are expected to face prosecution upon completion of investigations.

The state Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, commended the officers for their professionalism and reiterated the command’s commitment to enforcing traffic and environmental laws. He warned that any individual or group found obstructing public roads would be dealt with in accordance with the law.

Residents and commuters have welcomed the move, noting that illegal trading along the expressway had long caused traffic congestion, increased the risk of accidents, and slowed commercial activities. Authorities say similar operations will continue to ensure safe and free-flowing highways linking Lagos and Abeokuta.

Police Arrest 15 Suspects for Illegal Trading on Lagos–Abeokuta Expressway