Security forces from Lagos and Ogun states have launched a joint crackdown on criminal networks along their shared border.
The operation, codenamed “Operation Kosaye” meaning “there is no hiding place” in Yoruba, targets kidnapping syndicates and armed robbery gangs using forests and remote border communities as hideouts.
The operation has recorded early gains. During sweeps of forest hideouts near the J3/J4 axis of Ogbere in Ogun State and other flashpoints, operatives arrested 88 suspects, rescued five kidnap victims, and killed four suspected criminals in gun battles.
A cache of arms and ammunition was also recovered.
The joint task force, initiated by the Nigeria Police Force, was inaugurated at the Police Training School in Iperu-Remo, Ogun State.
Commissioners of Police from both states said the mission is to eliminate ungoverned spaces and stop criminals from exploiting state boundaries. Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos and Dapo Abiodun of Ogun described it as a model for inter-state cooperation, with Sanwo-Olu calling it a “massive onslaught” driven by intelligence-led policing.
The governors of both states, Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos and Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, have lauded the initiative as a model for inter-state security cooperation. Governor Sanwo-Olu described the mission as a “massive onslaught” against criminal elements and credited the success to intelligence-led policing and effective collaboration. Governor Abiodun echoed these sentiments, noting that the sustained pressure from the joint forces has made the border corridor increasingly hostile to those engaged in violent crime.
Both state governments have pledged continued logistical and technical support for the mission. Security authorities confirmed that the operation will continue, with intensified surveillance and intelligence gathering planned for forested areas and other high-risk zones across the region to prevent future criminal activity
