As part of renewed efforts to curb plastic pollution, the Lagos Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC), popularly known as KAI, has confiscated Styrofoam food packs and single-use plastics (SUPs) valued at N2.5 million during enforcement operations across major markets and shopping malls in the state.

The Corps Marshal, Major Olaniyi Olatunbosun (Rtd), disclosed in a statement on Tuesday that the enforcement followed intelligence reports of persistent violations despite the state-wide ban on Styrofoam and SUPs. Targeted areas included Agege, Oshodi, Idumota, Mushin, Victoria Island, and Lekki.

“The ban is already in effect and applies not only to Styrofoam but also to single-use plastics,” Olatunbosun said. “Our operations are in direct response to traders who continue to flout the government’s directives.”

The Corps Marshal underscored that the Ministry of the Environment’s decision to outlaw Styrofoam and SUPs effective July 1 was driven by the urgent need to safeguard Lagos’ fragile environment.

He noted that plastic waste remains a major contributor to flooding, marine pollution, and public health hazards across the state’s coastal communities.

Items under the ban include Styrofoam containers, polystyrene cups, plastic straws, cutlery, and single-use carrier bags thinner than 40 microns. Olatunbosun clarified that this measure counters misinformation suggesting the ban is limited to Styrofoam alone.

“The harmful nature of these products is undeniable. They are non-biodegradable, have no recycling value, and continue to degrade our ecosystem,” he stressed, reiterating the call for total compliance.

In addition to the clampdown on plastics, the Corps Marshal warned traders against displaying goods on road setbacks, medians, and drain covers, describing such practices as violations of state environmental laws.

He also urged Lagosians to embrace proper waste disposal, use pedestrian bridges for safety, and desist from open urination or defecation, which block drainage channels and worsen flooding.

The seizure marks one of the most significant enforcement drives since the ban came into effect, signaling the state government’s determination to