Twenty-seven suspected hoodlums have been arrested after Lagos State enforcement officers uncovered alleged vandalism beneath the newly constructed bridge linking Festac Town with Alakija in Amuwo-Odofin.
The discovery was made during enforcement operations along the Lagos-Badagry corridor aimed at tackling environmental violations, illegal activities and other infractions around the highway.
According to the Lagos State Government, officers discovered that suspected vandals had removed iron rods, steel reinforcements, cables and other materials from parts of the bridge structure.
The government described the discovery as a serious threat to the safety and integrity of the infrastructure, particularly as the bridge serves as an important link between Festac Town and the Alakija axis.
Following the discovery, a joint midnight operation involving personnel of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) and the Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) task force was carried out at the location.
The operation resulted in the arrest of 27 suspects, who the government said would be prosecuted in accordance with Lagos State laws.
The enforcement operation forms part of the state’s wider efforts to rid the Lagos-Badagry Transnational Highway of activities including illegal motor parks, roadside trading, market displays on highway setbacks, obstruction of pedestrian walkways and other environmental infractions.
The alleged vandalism has raised concerns over the protection of newly constructed infrastructure in the Amuwo-Odofin area, with the removal of structural materials potentially exposing the facility and road users to safety risks.
The Lagos State Government said it would continue to take action against individuals involved in infrastructure vandalism and other activities capable of undermining public infrastructure and safety.
The government also urged residents to remain vigilant and report activities that could threaten critical infrastructure within their communities.