The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has arrested seven people for allegedly engaging in illegal waste dumping during a night enforcement operation around the Pattey area of Lagos Island. The operation was conducted as part of efforts to monitor identified waste black spots and enforce environmental regulations across Lagos State. 

The suspects were identified as Nafisat Alabi, 30; Aminullah Abdulrasheed, 49; Segun Adeyemi, 45; Gboyega Osuntuyi, 44; Segun Olowe, 26; Adebayo Ibrahim, 29; and Stephen Ogboru, 36. They were reportedly taken to the LAWMA Task Force Office in Oshodi for prosecution in accordance with due process.

The enforcement operation was temporarily disrupted when some persons described as area boys reportedly arrived at the LAWMA office and attempted to interfere with the exercise. The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of LAWMA, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, said the situation was brought under control after the Area Commander of Lion Building Police Station deployed officers to provide security and allow the enforcement team to continue its duties.

Gbadegesin said LAWMA would continue monitoring areas identified as environmental black spots and enforcing waste management regulations. He urged residents, traders and other stakeholders to comply with approved waste disposal practices, stressing that maintaining a clean environment requires cooperation between authorities, businesses and communities.