According to reports, no fewer than 150 vehicles were vandalised in Idi Araba and Olorunishola communities in the Mushin Local Government Area of Lagos State after bloody clashes between two factional gangs in the neighbourhoods.
The two rival gangs; Idi Araba boys and Olurunnishola boys have been coexisting peacefully for about four (4) years.
However, this incidence was triggered after an unnamed lady invited both gangs to a party last Saturday on Olanrewaju Street, off Itire Road.
The lady was said to have invited two different men, one from each of the gangs.
According to a resident, one Faruk of Olorunnishola boys escalated the fight after he smashed a bottle on Abbey, a “strong member of Idi Araba boys.”
Both gangs went on to cause mayhem in the two communities.
“Olorunishola boys also came to Idi Araba, Folarin Street and other neighbouring streets around 12.30am on Sunday, September 10. They destroyed about 150 vehicles”, eye witnesses said.
“Idi Araba boys comprised thugs from Daniyan, Sea Side, Lawanson, Odutan and Adekunle areas; and they were led by Emo, Sule Jagaban and Bere.
“Olorunishola boys also comprised hoodlums from Daniel, Morgan, Shittu, Igbeyin Adun streets and Ojuwoye in Mushin. They were led by Mopol and Bobo. Some of them are cult members.
Another resident said “Apart from destroying property, they entered into houses to steal laptops, generators, televisions and other items. Everybody here is afraid. We need more security and we want the police to stop the gangs from causing more havoc.”
The Chairman, Ifetedo Community Development Association, Ishaga Close, Idi Araba, Mr. Rasheed Bakare, called on the state government to intervene, stating that the gangs had created panic in the affected communities.
“Whenever there is any misunderstanding, they start destroying property and robbing people.”
“We want the state government to intervene because it is getting out of hands.”
The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Olarinde Famous-Cole, said that the police had started a regular patrol of the areas.
He said, “Arrests were made and suspects have been charged to court. A raid was also conducted and five male suspects were taken to the Lagos State Task Force office in Oshodi.