Banana Island Estate Bans Short-Term Rentals Following Arrest of Theft Gang

The prestigious Banana Island Estate in Ikoyi, Lagos, has implemented an immediate ban on all short-term rental operations following a major security incident that led to the arrest of eight suspected criminals.

The Banana Island Property Owners and Residents Association, Lagos (BIPORAL) announced the prohibition through its executive committee, citing the need to protect residents’ security, privacy, and quality of life.

According to the association, investigations revealed that criminals had been exploiting short-let apartments as entry points into the gated community, creating significant safety concerns for residents.

“The executive committee has decided to completely prohibit short-let and Airbnb operations throughout Banana Island, including both residential and commercial properties, following the recent security incident and breach of our community’s longstanding peace,” the statement said.

The committee explained that the temporary nature of short-term rentals compromises collective security measures, resident privacy, and community stability.

Effective Monday, February 9, the ban represents what officials described as a difficult but essential step to maintain the estate’s reputation as a secure and tranquil residential enclave.

The association revealed that police arrested members of a theft ring on Friday that had allegedly targeted the estate over several months.

The suspects reportedly used a deliberate strategy of booking short-term rentals in gated communities to facilitate their criminal activities.

Acting on intelligence from the estate’s security personnel, police conducted a raid on a short-let property at George Residences on Femi Pedro Street, with assistance from the Assistant Inspector-General of Police overseeing Zone 2, Onikan.

The operation led to the detention of a primary suspect and four accomplices, while authorities seized vehicles, mobile phones, and a laptop as evidence.

Three more suspects were subsequently apprehended when they attempted to collect one of the confiscated vehicles. Further investigation uncovered stolen property and disguises connected to criminal operations conducted within Banana Island.

The association emphasized its dedication to protecting residents’ safety, property, and the estate’s distinguished reputation, noting that all suspects have reportedly admitted to the crimes.