Banana Island Bans Short‑Let Rentals after Arrests in Security Crackdown

The prestigious Banana Island Estate in Ikoyi has announced a ban on all short‑let and Airbnb‑style rentals, following a security operation in which eight suspected thieves were arrested by police in connection with criminal activity linked to rented short‑stay properties.

The decision, announced on Monday by the Banana Island Property Owners and Residents Association, Lagos (BIPORAL), is aimed at strengthening security, protecting residents’ privacy and preserving the estate’s traditionally peaceful environment.

In a statement, the executive committee said investigations showed that short‑let apartments were being exploited by criminals to gain access to the gated community, posing “increasing risks to residents.”

The ban covers both residential and commercial properties in the high‑brow enclave.

The association said the measure, which took effect from February 9 was difficult but necessary to protect the estate’s “safe, serene and exclusive environment.”

The security breach was uncovered after a tip‑off from a member of the estate’s own security team led to a police raid on a short‑let apartment at George Residences on Femi Pedro Street, with support from the Assistant Inspector‑General of Police in charge of Zone 2, Onikan.

Police arrested a principal suspect and four others during the operation, recovering vehicles, mobile phones and a laptop that have since been taken to a police station for further investigation.

An additional three suspects were captured as they attempted to retrieve one of the seized vehicles, the statement added.

The association said further investigations uncovered stolen items and disguises linked to overnight operations within Banana Island, and that all eight suspects had confessed to involvement in the activities.

Banana Island, known as one of West Africa’s most affluent neighbourhoods, has in recent years faced various security and development challenges, including disputes over property access and infrastructure, as well as government plans to improve connectivity and enforce planning standards on the island.

Local authorities have previously collaborated with BIPORAL on broader issues affecting the estate’s functionality and safety, including improving accessibility and enforcement of building regulations.

The short‑let ban reflects growing concerns among residents of gated communities nationwide about the transient nature of some rental arrangements and the potential for such properties to be used by criminal elements to bypass standard vetting and security protocols.

BIPORAL has stated it will work with relevant authorities to protect lives and property, and has encouraged residents to report any suspicious activity as part of a wider effort to safeguard the estate’s legacy.