The Kwara State Government, on Thursday, evacuated 46 beggars from some “strategic areas” in Ilorin, the state capital.

The state Commissioner for Social Development, Opeyemi Afolashade, said the exercise was part of the government’s concerted efforts to rid the state of all forms of social menace caused by roadside begging within the strategic areas of the metropolis.

Afolashade, while expressing dissatisfaction at the incessant noncompliance of some individuals who view begging as a daily lucrative venture, described the act as sabotage and a challenge to the government’s commitment to making the state habitable and attractive.

Addressing the audience at one of the sites of the exercise, the commissioner noted that “the activities of roadside beggars over time have not only caused significant social and environmental degradation in the state but also posed threats to the security of inhabitants’ lives.”

“Some of these individuals cannot be overtly regarded as innocent and vulnerable, as many unscrupulous individuals among them often hide under the guise of roadside begging to perpetrate evils in the community,” she added.

She further said, “It is a dismay to us today, despite the zealous efforts of our team, that some daggers, knives, and charms were recovered from these people (beggars).”

The commissioner stressed that the AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq-led administration prioritises social upliftment for the economically disadvantaged in the state, through numerous social interventions for the vulnerable, disabled, and less privileged, adding that the governor is ready to do more.

The evacuation exercise was commended by residents at various scenes, who urged the state government not to relent in its efforts to fully eradicate the menace in the state.

The exercise began at the G.R.A. area and continued to Babatunde Idiagbon Flyover, Tanke; Offa Garage; Geri Alimi; Odota; and some parts of Baba Ode-Dangote area, where many street beggars reside.

The 46 evacuated beggars were taken to the ministry’s facility for correction and onward rehabilitation, while their children were taken to the Children Reception Centre for immediate care and protection.

The evacuation team also included the Director of Rehabilitation, Mr Taiye Ikupolati, and some other staffers of the ministry.