…Ketu–Mile 12, Ikorodu Road among flashpoints identified by residents
Ola Akinwunmi
The Lagos State Police Command has promised to tighten the noose on criminals operating across major corridors in the state, particularly between Ketu and Mile 12, following growing public complaints about persistent armed robbery and petty theft in the area.
Residents and traders along key transport routes have raised the alarm over increasing cases of phone snatching and attacks on commuters, especially at night. Locations named as robbery hotspots include Costain, Mile 12 Underbridge, Ajelogo Road, BRT Station, Okoko, Anthony, Ojota, Ketu Tipper, Alapere, Ikosi, Ile Ile, Kosofe, Irawo, and Blue Roof along the busy Ikorodu Road axis.
In an interview with journalists, a trader at Ketu Junction, who requested anonymity for fear of reprisal, described how hoodlums typically strike from Abiola Garden around 8pm, preying on commuters rushing to board buses.
“It’s common here,” she said. “They act like passengers and steal phones from people’s pockets. They do it all the way from Abiola Garden down to Mile 12.”
A nearby POS operator shared similar concerns, recounting two incidents she witnessed in just one week.
“One woman came crying that her phone had been snatched. Another time, two ladies rushed to me, asking how to block their Palmpay accounts after they were attacked,” she said, noting the difficulty in producing witnesses, which often hampers police intervention.
Pepper sellers under the Mile 12 bridge confirmed that while there’s been a slight decline in daylight thefts, night-time attacks remain a serious concern.
“In the past, you couldn’t even hold your phone openly during the day. Now, it’s better, but you still need to be careful at night,” one of them added.
In response, Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, assured residents that authorities are taking their concerns seriously. He noted that the police have increased deployment and reviewed strategies based on feedback from the public.
“We are taking people’s complaints into cognisance,” Hundeyin told our correspondent. “There is adequate enforcement on the road, patrol vehicles are stationed at strategic points, and we’re already seeing results.”
However, the fear and frustration remain palpable. A social media activist, Lola Okunrin, shared how his friend was recently robbed around Mile 12 at about 10pm, calling for urgent government intervention.
“This is a call to action. The robberies between Ketu and Mile 12 are overwhelming,” he posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Other users echoed similar experiences, demanding better protection along the often-congested corridor.
Hundeyin acknowledged that while arrests and prosecutions are ongoing, the problem is compounded by new offenders—many of whom are struggling with unemployment and drug addiction.
“Every day, new miscreants emerge. We’ve arrested and prosecuted many, but it’s a constant cycle,” he said.
As the police renew their commitment to public safety, Lagos residents are hoping for swift, sustained action that will bring relief to those living and commuting along these dangerous routes.
