September 6, 2022

The Lagos State Taskforce has apprehended five suspected members of a notorious land grabbing syndicate known for causing mayhem and upsetting developmental activities and construction in the Ibeju-Lekki axis of the State.

In a statement by the LASG on Monday night, speaking on the arrests carried out over the weekend, the Chairman of the Agency, CSP Shola Jejeloye disclosed that the crime syndicate has been known for terrorising legitimate property owners and occupants within Sangotedo, Lakowe, and Abijo in Ibeju-Lekki Local Council Development Areas.

He disclosed that the Taskforce received several complaints about the activities of the “Omo-Oniles”, as the syndicate is popularly known, and they have also been warned by the State Government to desist from carrying out their disruptive acts but failed to comply with the plea.

“Residents and victims of these land grabbers have laid series of complaints to the Taskforce, which made us carry out our own investigation leading to warnings being issued to them. It is quite unfortunate that they feel untouchable and daring but with the recent clampdown on their activities, they will learn to obey the laws of the State. There is no room for land grabbers in Lagos”.

“It was quite appalling that even women were amongst the individuals arrested with guns, charms and harmful weapons that they use to intimidate their victims. They will be made to face the full wrath of the law and we will ensure that anyone found engaging in such a nefarious practice anywhere in the State is arrested and prosecuted accordingly”, Jejeloye added.

The Taskforce Chairman urged Lagosians to resist the urge to pay the “Omo Oniles” ransom for property legitimately purchased, rather they should report activities of the miscreants for prompt action, noting that the five suspects have already been charged to court.