No fewer than 88 mentally challenged persons and beggars have so far been evacuated from the streets of Il?rin by the Kwara State government.

The Commissioner for Social Development, Opeyemi Afolashade, who disclosed this on Thursday shortly after another round of action on the issue, said the evacuation which was held between November 24 and 30, was around the Post Office, Taiwo-Isale, Tipper Garage in Tanke, Challenge, Unity and GRA axes.

Mrs Afolashade said the evacuated persons were taken to one of the ministry's rehabilitation homes for treatment, prosecution and possible repatriation.

She said, “The evacuation is part of the ministry's responsibilities and a means to further ensure the society is cleansed from any form of menace.

“The menace of persistent street begging is regarded as a viable business venture among some people. This is despite a series of dialogues, media sensitizations and numerous social interventions by the government. This is worrisome.”

She reiterated that the exercise would be continuous, adding that the ministry would no longer take the menace with levity, warning all those involved to desist or be ready to face the wrath of law.