Footage shows Lagos set to screen and deport 396 vagrants detained during city cleanup operation

In a renewed effort to tackle street begging, the Lagos State Government has taken 396 beggars into custody, with plans to provide them with necessary assistance and return them to their states of origin after profiling. This move is part of the government's broader initiative to sanitise the environment and curb illegal activities.

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Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, announced this development in a statement posted on his X page on Tuesday, detailing the government's actions to address the issue.

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According to Wahab, the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps, also known as the KAI Corps, was responsible for apprehending the 396 beggars as part of the state's ongoing campaign to improve environmental sanitation and tackle illegal activities.

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Wahab stated that the total number of beggars arrested by the KAI Corps operatives was 396, highlighting the government's sustained efforts to sanitise the state and curb illegal activities.

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The commissioner explained that the arrested individuals would not only be profiled but also receive necessary support before being repatriated to their respective states, as part of the government's efforts to provide assistance where needed.

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He noted that the apprehended individuals would be provided with appropriate assistance where necessary and handed over to the relevant authorities to facilitate their safe return to their respective states, outlining the next steps for the arrested beggars.

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Wahab observed that this exercise is part of the government's broader efforts to maintain public order and improve environmental sanitation across the state, reflecting the government's commitment to creating a cleaner, safer, and more secure environment.

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The initiative, according to Wahab, demonstrates the government's dedication to maintaining public order, protecting the environment, and ensuring a cleaner, safer, and more secure Lagos for all residents.

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Street begging is prohibited under Lagos State law, and residents have been warned against giving alms to beggars on major highways, with the state government advising donations to be channelled through registered charity bodies instead.

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The state government has repeatedly cautioned residents that violating this directive constitutes an offence, emphasizing the need to follow the proper channels for charitable donations.