The Lagos State Police Command has stepped up security operations in Ikola following a violent clash that reportedly claimed three lives, injured two people and resulted in the burning of some buildings.
The Command said normalcy has been restored to the area, while additional security personnel have been deployed to prevent a recurrence of the violence and protect residents.
The incident reportedly started after suspected area boys allegedly stopped a tricycle operator and demanded ₦200 from him. The rider was said to have refused the demand, prompting the group to seize his tricycle.
According to the Police, the rider later returned with some people, resulting in a confrontation that escalated into violence.
Three people were reportedly killed during the clash, while two others sustained injuries. The victims were taken to the Military Hospital, Yaba, for medical attention and other necessary procedures.
The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Tijani Olaiwola Fatai, visited the scene alongside the Commander, 9 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brig. Gen. Afolabi Owolabi, to assess the situation and coordinate the security response.
Following the assessment, personnel from the Rapid Response Squad, Police Taskforce, Tactical Squad, Police Mobile Force, Eko Strike Force and Vehicle and Crime Reporting Unit were deployed to the area for surveillance and enforcement.
The Police said an investigation has commenced to establish the circumstances surrounding the violence and identify those responsible.
The Command warned that anyone found to have participated in the violence or other criminal activities would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
It also appealed to residents to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified reports capable of heightening tension.
Residents were further urged to provide useful information to security agencies to assist investigators in identifying the perpetrators and preventing further violence in the community.
