Officials of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) have stepped up enforcement operations across Lagos State, arresting and dislodging illegal cart pushers as part of renewed efforts to tackle indiscriminate waste disposal and safeguard the environment.

The exercise, conducted by the agency’s Waste Investigation, Surveillance, and Enforcement unit, formed part of routine operations aimed at maintaining cleanliness in major parts of the state.

In a statement, the Lagos State Government said the arrested cart pushers were caught collecting and dumping refuse at unauthorised locations, actions that undermine ongoing clean-up initiatives and contribute to environmental degradation.

During the operation, officials confiscated carts used for the illegal activities in areas including Anthony Oke (Newcastle axis), Ifako Gbagada, Alagomeji–Yaba, and nearby communities.

The government described the move as part of its ongoing commitment to eliminate unregulated waste practices and restore environmental order. It noted that illegal cart pushers not only violate sanitation laws but also reverse progress made in maintaining a clean and healthy environment.

Authorities expressed concern that streets and public spaces previously cleaned were being defaced again through unlawful dumping, stressing that such behaviour is both unacceptable and preventable.

Residents were strongly advised to stop patronising illegal cart pushers and to adhere strictly to approved waste disposal procedures. The agency emphasised that lasting environmental cleanliness depends on public cooperation and responsible waste management.