Korede Abdullah 
LAGOS, Nigeria – Lagos authorities say a fast-growing oil bunkering ring operating in the heart of Lekki has been dismantled following a late-night enforcement raid that led to the arrest of 27 suspects found with large quantities of fake naira notes.
The Lagos Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC), also known as KAI, confirms on Wednesday that the operation took place at The Rock Drive in Lekki Phase 1 after weeks of intelligence gathering.
Corps Marshal Major Olaniyi Olatunbosun Cole (rtd) says the syndicate had been running an unlicensed depot, storing and adulterating petroleum products in makeshift structures hidden behind residential properties.
“We discovered via intelligence reports how the activities of an unlicensed depot and oil bunkering enclave impacted the environment negatively, thereby constituting a threat to public health and safety whilst providing cover for miscreants found in possession of fake naira notes,” Cole says.
LAGESC operatives stormed the site and uncovered drums, jerry cans and improvised tanks filled with adulterated diesel. Officials say the operation posed extreme fire risks, soil contamination and potential mass casualties for nearby residents and businesses. “These actions violate environmental laws and put innocent people at risk,” he states.
The agency says the raid forms part of ongoing enforcement under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES+ agenda, which prioritises environmental protection and public safety.
Cole urges Lagos residents to support the state’s safety campaign by using pedestrian bridges. “We continue to record avoidable deaths from motorists. We urge residents to take responsibility for their safety,” he adds.
About the Author
Oluwafunbi Bello 
Oluwatobi Adu 
Koko Maxwella 
Hussaini Ibrahim