The Lagos State Task Force on Environment and Special Offences has arrested six individuals, including two women, for allegedly engaging in the illegal sale of petroleum products by the roadside.
According to the agency’s spokesperson, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, the task force conducted a comprehensive operation at Fadeyi, Maryland, Charity Bus Stop, and Airport Road, where the suspects were caught red-handed selling petrol to motorists at exorbitant rates.
The operation, led by the agency’s chairman, CSP Adetayo Akerele, aimed to curb the illegal activities that have exacerbated the fuel scarcity situation in Lagos.
Abdulraheem noted that these petrol hawkers purchase large quantities of petrol in gallons and kegs to resell by the roadside, posing significant safety risks due to the highly inflammable nature of petroleum products.
“The arrested suspects’ practice not only burdens already struggling motorists but also compromises public safety,” Abdulraheem stated.
“We are committed to curbing these illegal activities and ensuring the safety and well-being of the public are not compromised.”Abdulraheem warned individuals or groups who collude with petrol stations to sell petroleum products illegally to desist immediately or risk being arrested.
He assured that the agency would continue to crack down on illegal petroleum merchants, emphasizing that their actions are not only cruel but also a severe threat to public safety.
The improper handling and storage of petrol by these black market operators could lead to catastrophic fire disasters, Abdulraheem noted, highlighting the urgency of addressing this issue.
The Lagos State Task Force on Environment and Special Offences will maintain its vigilance to protect the public and prevent such illegal activities from thriving.
