Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has praised the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies following the remarkable success of Operation Kosaye.
The governor’s commendation came after the operation led to the arrest of 88 suspects, the rescue of five kidnapped victims, the neutralisation of four suspected criminals during a gun battle, and the recovery of several firearms and ammunition.
The latest development has further strengthened public confidence in the renewed fight against kidnapping and violent crime in the South-West.
Moreover, the success of the operation has reinforced the growing collaboration between the Lagos and Ogun State Police Commands.
Speaking through a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, Governor Sanwo-Olu applauded the commitment shown by security personnel during the operation.
He described the exercise as a significant step toward improving public safety and ensuring that criminals have fewer places to hide.
According to the governor, “We will continue to work with the police and other security agencies to ensure that our state remains safe and secure for residents and visitors.”
Furthermore, Sanwo-Olu expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for providing leadership that has strengthened coordinated policing efforts across state boundaries.
He also commended the Lagos and Ogun State Police Commands for working together to tackle security threats affecting residents.
According to him, “We appreciate the huge efforts of the police under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police in arresting the suspects, as well as the cooperation of our neighbours in Ogun State. This is the way it should be.”
The governor noted that collaboration remains one of the most effective tools for addressing modern security challenges.
Meanwhile, Operation Kosaye continues to focus on dismantling kidnapping gangs, armed robbery syndicates and other violent criminal networks operating around the Lagos-Ogun corridor.
The operation derives its name from the Yoruba expression meaning there is “no space” for criminals.
As part of the security exercise, police operatives have intensified bush-combing operations around forest boundaries linking Lagos and Ogun states.
Particular attention has been given to the J3 and J4 axis of Ogbere in Ogun State, where intelligence reports identified criminal hideouts.
In addition, security personnel have continued to patrol vulnerable border communities to prevent criminal groups from regrouping.
Police authorities explained that the operation reflects their commitment to intelligence-led policing and proactive crime prevention.
Recovered weapons and ammunition have also been displayed, while arrested suspects have been paraded as investigations continue.
Furthermore, authorities believe the operation sends a strong warning to criminal elements planning to exploit forests and remote communities as safe havens.
Sanwo-Olu also appealed to residents to remain active partners in the fight against crime.
He encouraged members of the public to provide useful information that could assist security agencies in identifying criminal hideouts and suspicious activities.
According to the governor, community support remains essential for sustaining recent security gains.
He also assured residents that the Lagos State Government would continue investing in security infrastructure and operational support.
According to Sanwo-Olu, “We will continue to motivate our law enforcement agencies through the Lagos State Security Trust Fund to enhance their operational effectiveness.”
Moreover, the Lagos State Security Trust Fund will continue providing logistics, equipment and other resources needed to strengthen law enforcement operations.
Therefore, the achievements recorded under Operation Kosaye may serve as a model for future joint security operations across Nigeria.
