The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), in collaboration with the Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) and the Mobile Police, has arrested a resident of Meiran, Lagos, for allegedly dumping waste into a drainage channel during rainfall.
The arrest followed a tip-off from members of the public, according to LAWMA Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin.
Gbadegesin said the enforcement team responded promptly to the report and arrested the woman at No. 13, Lanre Adefiranye Street, Baale Bus Stop, Meiran.
He said the suspect was allegedly caught dumping waste into a drainage channel during rainfall and had been taken to the KAI headquarters for further investigation and prosecution in accordance with the law.
The LAWMA boss commended the residents who alerted the authorities, describing their action as an example of responsible citizenship and support for environmental protection.
He urged Lagos residents to report cases of indiscriminate waste disposal and other environmental violations, stressing that timely information could help prevent environmental offences from worsening.
“Members of the public have an important role to play in protecting our environment. When you see indiscriminate dumping or any other environmental violation, speak up and report it,” Gbadegesin said.
He reiterated LAWMA’s commitment to curbing indiscriminate waste disposal, particularly the dumping of refuse in drainage channels, which he said could obstruct waterways and increase the risk of flooding during rainfall.
The authority urged residents to dispose of their waste through approved channels and warned that dumping refuse in drains poses risks to public health, the environment and Lagos’ drainage infrastructure.