Rampaging hoodlums, robbers attacks throw Lagos communities into panic

Policemen

Residents of at least eight communities in Lagos State were plunged into a state of panic following coordinated invasions by suspected hoodlums and armed robbers.

Findings by PUNCH Metro revealed that the separate incidents left seven communities within the Oshodi area and another community in Ikotun gripped by fear.

While the full extent of casualties from Sunday’s violence remains unconfirmed, the affected areas include Ajenifuja, Alimioke, Afariogun, Church Street, Mosaku, Oshodi Road, and Adekunle Street.

Sources in Oshodi who spoke with our correspondent on Monday said residents fled for safety when about 30 hoodlums, popularly known as “Seven Street Boys,” went on a rampage, brandishing guns and other dangerous weapons.

One of the residents, Oluwatosin, said the group was made up of youths from seven streets within Oshodi and is notorious for sudden outbreaks of violence.

“There is a group of boys known as the Seven Street Boys. They are drawn from about seven streets in Oshodi. Whenever there is relative peace for two or three months, they suddenly unleash violence without any clear cause.

“They often claim there is a fight at a particular location, but it quickly escalates, putting passersby at risk. Sometimes, they burgle houses, displace residents and steal phones, bags and other belongings,” he said.

Another resident, Rasheed, said the violence made it difficult for people to go about their daily activities.

“I was supposed to go to work with my laptop, but having lived in Oshodi for about five years, I understand how these situations unfold. When such incidents happen, it is safer to stay back because they can resurface, even at night,” he said.

A third resident, identified simply as James, alleged that gunshots were fired during the attack.