The Commissioner of Police, Nigeria Police Force Lagos State Command, Olohundare Jimoh, has disclosed that more than 150 stolen vehicles were recovered in the past year as part of intensified efforts to curb crime across the state.
Jimoh made this known on Tuesday while addressing journalists at the command headquarters in Lagos to mark his first year in office.
He said anti–car theft units were established across area commands to tackle vehicle theft, adding that tactical squads were expanded from 23 to 35 units to ensure coverage of all local government areas.
“Over 150 stolen vehicles were recovered during the year, with anti–car theft units established across area commands to tackle the problem. Tactical squads were expanded from 23 to 35 units, covering all local government areas, while enhanced intelligence gathering and surveillance operations helped prevent opportunistic crimes,” he said.
According to the commissioner, the state recorded a sharp decline in major crimes during the period, attributing the improvement to intelligence-led policing, strengthened operational strategies and improved community partnerships.
Jimoh noted that internal security remained stable, with no serious breaches of public peace, adding that civil protests were professionally managed without escalation.
“Those celebrating were provided with adequate security, and those protesting were equally protected. We ensured that no protest degenerated into violence, and incidents threatening critical infrastructure, such as the Third Mainland Bridge, were contained with minimal force,” he said.
He further reported a significant reduction in cultism and cult-related violence, noting that notorious flashpoints in Oshodi, Ketu, Mushin and Lagos Island had been brought under control.
“Several suspects linked to violent crimes were arrested, including a long-time gang leader who had been on the police watchlist for nearly two decades,” Jimoh added.
To further strengthen the security architecture, he said the Eko Strike Force was created to complement the Rapid Response Squad, with patrol vehicles and logistics support provided by the Lagos State Government through the Lagos State Security Trust Fund.
Jimoh emphasised that the deployment of technology and sustained community engagement had been critical to improving response times and boosting public confidence.
He also said the command successfully provided security for high-profile national and international events hosted in the state, including ceremonies attended by governors, ministers and foreign dignitaries.
“The command remains committed to protecting residents and visitors. We will continue to ensure that Lagos remains not only Nigeria’s economic hub but also a model of security and public safety,” he said.
The commissioner commended the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for his support, and also thanked Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for strengthening the operational capacity of the command through the donation of four patrol vehicles via the Lagos State Security Trust Fund.
Jimoh further disclosed that the Federal Government, through the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, supported the state’s security control centres with monthly allowances of N3m for personnel across the Marine Police units, Federal Highway Patrol and the control centres.
