Operatives of the Lagos State Taskforce have arrested two men suspected of extorting money from motorists along the Oshodi–Agunlejika–Apapa Expressway, officials say.
The suspects, identified as Abiodun Ajasa, 44, and Junaid Folami, were apprehended following intelligence reports about their alleged involvement in illegal activities targeting broken-down vehicles on the busy highway.
Authorities say the pair were part of a group popularly known as “Omotaku”, accused of posing as revenue collectors in order to demand money from drivers experiencing mechanical problems.
The Lagos State Taskforce said the arrests were made after a tip-off from a civic group, ICU – To Save A Soul. Officials said operatives moved quickly and detained the suspects while they were allegedly attempting to extort a motorist.
According to the agency, the men initially claimed to be a bystander and a legitimate revenue collector. However, officials said investigations linked them to a network that had previously evaded arrest despite repeated complaints from the public.
The chairman of the taskforce, CSP Adetayo Akerele, said the suspects had been under surveillance following reports of illegal revenue collection and intimidation of motorists.
“We receive numerous complaints from residents reporting that these individuals operate deceptively and appear legitimate, making them difficult to apprehend,” he said.
During questioning, officials said one of the suspects admitted targeting vehicles transporting goods from Apapa Port that had broken down along the expressway. He allegedly told investigators that the group approached drivers claiming to offer protection from rival groups, before demanding payment under threat of vehicle impoundment.
The second suspect was said to have admitted helping to prevent drivers from accessing their vehicles, allegedly to pressure them into paying money.
Mr Akerele said the suspects would be prosecuted in accordance with the law, adding that the arrests should serve as a warning to others engaged in illegal extortion.
He also urged residents to report suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies, stressing that authorities would continue efforts to tackle criminal activities across Lagos.
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