Police Special Squad Cracks Down on Illegal Checkpoints along Seme-Badagry Expressway, Arrests Officers

In a significant operation conducted along the Badagry-Seme Expressway, a team believed to be under the command of the Inspector General of Police (IGP) apprehended several police officers and operatives from the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) during a raid on illegal checkpoints along the Seme-Badagry Expressway. The operation, aimed at curbing extortion and unauthorized activities, reflects a joint effort between law enforcement agencies to restore order and facilitate legitimate trade.

The IGP’s specialized squad pursued and detained officers stationed at these illegal checkpoints, suspected of engaging in extortion activities that disrupted the movement of goods and individuals. The operation’s timing coincides with recent discussions between the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, and IGP Kayode Egbetokun, who have pledged to eliminate unauthorized checkpoints along the crucial Lagos-Abidjan corridor.

Illegal checkpoints have not only caused trade disruptions but have also marred Nigeria’s reputation on regional and continental fronts. The crackdown on these checkpoints indicates a resolve to restore credibility and efficiency to the trade route, benefiting both the nation’s economy and its international standing.

Stakeholders in the maritime sector have commended the IGP’s initiative, expressing hope that the sustained operation will eliminate corrupt practices and restore legitimate trade operations. Maritime professionals have urged the authorities to extend their efforts to include the maritime police, who have been accused of obstructing legitimate trade and overstepping their jurisdiction.

As the crackdown continues, it remains to be seen how effectively this joint effort between law enforcement agencies will address the issues posed by illegal checkpoints, ensuring smooth trade facilitation and upholding the rule of law.