Korede Abdullah 
Lagos, Nigeria – Authorities arrest five suspected members of the “Omotaku” gang accused of extorting motorists along a major highway in Lagos.
The Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Enforcement Unit confirms the arrests follow a tip-off and weeks of surveillance.
Chairman Adetayo Akerele on Tuesday said the suspects targeted stranded motorists, posing as roadside mechanics.
“Investigations revealed that the suspects posed as roadside mechanics, offering assistance before allegedly turning on victims,” he says.
Authorities say the group intimidated drivers and demanded money, threatening to tamper with vehicle parts if refused.
“They approached victims under the guise of providing mechanical assistance before resorting to threats and extortion,” Akerele adds.
Officials note the gang operated in a coordinated manner, with members blocking access to vehicles and removing parts to force compliance.
The agency warns criminal elements to desist and urges residents to report suspicious activities.
Security analysts say the crackdown highlights growing concerns over organised street-level extortion in urban centres.
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Mirian Gom 
Oluwatobi Adu 
Otamere Gladness 