In the first half of 2024, property valued at over N141 million was destroyed at Lagos’ major seaports, Apapa and Tin-Can Island Ports, according to a recent police report.
The Western Zone of the Police Authority released these figures during the second quarter meeting of the Nigeria Port Consultative Council (NPCC) held in Lagos. The report, presented by Deputy Commissioner of Police, Operations, DCP Ibrahim Abdul, highlights significant security issues at the ports.
The report indicates that theft alone led to a loss of N102.9 million, with only N10.013 million recovered. Between January and June 2024, a total of 103 suspects were arrested in connection with various security breaches, including attacks on vessels and theft of Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) property.
DCP Abdul noted that while the overall security situation at the ports remains relatively stable, 57 cases were reported during this period. Of these, 26 cases have been charged to court, 27 are still under investigation, and 3 have been closed. The reported cases include six assaults, two misdemeanours, six stowaways, and 18 thefts.
“Theft alone resulted in a property loss of N102,885,198, with only N10,012,500 recovered,” DCP Abdul stated. He attributed the relatively stable security situation to ongoing crime prevention measures implemented by the police command.
