LAWMA arrests 7 over illegal dumping on Lagos Island

LAGOS — The Lagos Waste Management Authority, LAWMA, has arrested seven suspected illegal waste dumpers during an overnight enforcement operation in the Pattey area of Lagos Island.

The operation, conducted on Wednesday, was part of the agency’s ongoing efforts to eliminate illegal waste disposal black spots and enforce environmental regulations across the state.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of LAWMA, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, said the suspects were apprehended for prosecution.

The suspects were identified as Nafisat Alabi, 30, from Kwara State; Aminullah Abdulrasheed, 49, Kwara; Segun Adeyemi, 45, Ogun; Gboyega Osuntuyi, 44, Ekiti; Segun Olowe, 26, Osun; Adebayo Ibrahim, 29, Oyo; and Stephen Ogboru, 36, Delta.

The enforcement operation, however, encountered resistance when a group of suspected hoodlums reportedly stormed the LAWMA field office in the area and attempted to interfere with the officers.

The situation was brought under control after the Area Commander of the Lion Building Police Station deployed a tactical team to support the enforcement personnel.

Gbadegesin said LAWMA would continue to enforce waste management regulations across the state.

“LAWMA will not relent in enforcing waste management regulations. Sustained monitoring and enforcement remain essential to curbing illegal dumping and promoting responsible waste practices,” he said.

The seven suspects have been transferred to the Task Force Office in Oshodi for prosecution.

Gbadegesin commended the police for their prompt intervention and urged residents, traders and local businesses to support LAWMA’s efforts.

He also warned against obstructing enforcement personnel carrying out their duties.