Residents of Ikotun and its surrounding communities in Lagos State have praised the Divisional Police Officer, DPO, and the Commander of the Command Tactical Team, Ijegun Annex, for what they described as significant improvements in security and a noticeable reduction in criminal activities.

Speaking separately with reporters, residents said the area has witnessed a sharp decline in crime, attributing the development to effective policing and consistent supervision by the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command.

The commendation followed a recent security operation triggered by a distress call from a member of a Community Development Association, CDA, in Arikejohn, White Sand community, Isheri-Oshun.

The alert reportedly bordered on the activities of suspected cult gangs allegedly linked to a drug baron and dealers of illicit substances, whose residence was said to serve as a meeting point for planning criminal operations.

Police operatives, acting on the information, reportedly stormed the hideout and uncovered large quantities of illegal drugs concealed within the premises, marking what residents described as a major breakthrough in the fight against cultism and drug-related crimes in the area.

One of the residents, Chief Christopher Nwaka, who runs a supermarket near Ikotun Market, said the community played an active role in exposing the activities of criminal elements.

“We all worked together in uncovering the atrocities of these criminals. The police responded promptly and professionally,” he said.

Also speaking, a retired Customs officer and Ijegun resident, Otunba Adebowale, commended the officers for their dedication and effectiveness.

“I have lived here for about ten years and I am familiar with happenings from Ikotun to Ijegun and beyond. The officers manning these areas are doing a commendable job and deserve recognition,” he said.

Residents expressed optimism that sustained collaboration between the police and the community would further enhance safety and security in the area.